Editors NOTE - July 31 2026
When I started this process in 2020/21 I corresponded with Sir Patrick, when he was 97, see below.
In 2021, ORIGINALLY, created three matches to give PJS 35 games averaging 35 for 1949 - without wanting to give him 1,000 runs in a season - as I feel he would have mentioned that. So if it's less than 1,000 it ought to be less than Dr Manas Sinas's 887 runs in 1999, as that was actually scored. PJS could have batted 35 times and scored 35 runs and only been out Once. But as he's an opener that is unlikely. So I hope a reasonable middle course steered.
In 2026, and having seen the RNVR scorebook for 1949 (albeit missing Barcombe - but, interestingly, no other games) he hadn't batted exactly 35 times, nor averaged 35, and that needed to be reflected in light of "evidence". I have therefore removed these three fake matches (where only he batted!)
Dear Piers
Thank you for your email. I think I played my first games for RNVR CC in 1948, and in 1949 I played 35 innings with an average of, if I remember rightly, 35. In those days, the tours were well attended and Arthur Hensher and I went to all the matches in the ‘50s but, at 97, I cannot remember details, except I remember scoring 96 one day and being greeted on my return to the pavilion with the instruction to collect the beer money. I am sorry I cannot be of more help to you. I spent many happy days playing for the RNVR and I regret only that my memories fail me.
All the best.
Patrick