Strathmore Cricket Union: the first 90 years a history 1928-2018

46 to confirm themselves as Strathmore Union champions, dismissing the home side for 40 and reaching 42 for 4. More importantly, it was about then that it was becoming apparent that the RAF had won their victory, for the Germans now began to focus their attention on bombing Britain’s cities during the night rather than attacking the sadly outnumbered but gloriously undefeated RAF during the day. By the time that the AGMwas held on Saturday 9th November, it was clear that Britain was saved, at least temporarily, and in a degree of normality, trophies were presented to Forthill XI and to Frank Findlay of Gordonians who had topped both the Batting and the Bowling Averages. It was not clear however whether there would be a 1941 season, given the number of players who were now in uniform, and it was agreed that a decision be deferred until March when the position was clearer. The meeting on 22nd March 1941 heard that although Strathmore, Forthill XI, Arbroath and Brechin would most likely be able to field some sort of a team, the other sides did not think that they could participate. A decision was therefore reluctantly taken to close down “for the duration of hostilities”. This was sad, but inevitable. It did not mean, however, that cricket stopped altogether. Occasionally, friendly games were played against each other, and often against a Forces side. Englishmen and Australians who were stationed in the area often guested for the local sides, and such games as were played were well attended. School games were played on an occasional basis between Arbroath High School and Forfar Academy, for example. Competitive cricket as such however had now ground to a halt while civilization resumed the tiresome task of saving itself from barbarism.