PHIL CONNELL
In recognition of twenty years' outstanding service to the Cricket Club and the HASSRA London HQ Association.
Phil Connell first played for the Strollers over 20 years ago. From 1982 to 2001, out of a possible 280 games, Phil played 235 times - an outstanding record!
With the bat, Phil scored a Club record of 4,166 runs, which includes a century and more half centuries and boundaries than any other Stroller. With the ball, Phil took 52 wickets, made 89 dismissals as wicket-keeper and held onto 116 catches overall - both records!
In addition to all his efforts for the Strollers, Phil represented HASSRA HQ 65 times, which included many significant cup wins. However, despite these many records, Phil will be best remembered for his 10-year captaincy of the Strollers. Phil led the side 169 times and recorded an impressive 115 wins, but winning or losing was not Phil's primary concern when captaining. Phil was always keen to maintain the Strollers' ethic of giving everyone the opportunity to take part and enjoy the game. All players were made welcome, no matter what their ability, and were given every chance to play their part to the full.
Phil's approach to his cricket very much represents what HASSRA is all about - giving everyone a chance to take part.
By Paul Lees