CRICKET: Jonny Cater backing Oxfordshire to continue upward curve

Despite being up against it on the opening day, Oxon hit back to record a 121-run victory in their Unicorns Counties Championship Western Division clash at Banbury.

Gareth Andrew rightfully got the headlines after a sensational display, with saw him secure match figures of 14-107, as well hitting a vital 72 in the second innings.

But Cater, who missed that win, expects a team full of confidence when he reports for duty at St Edward’s School on Sunday for the three-day clash against Wales.

“Although I did not play in the last game, the really refreshing thing was that when our backs were against the wall, we really dug in,” he said.

“Gareth was obviously the outstanding performer, but some of the younger lads really played their part too, and that’s great to see.

“It is great to have those younger players around him flourishing and that’s a big positive.”

Oxfordshire, however, are forced into a number of changes from that victorious side.

Former Kingston Bagpuize and Great & Little Tew all-rounder Matthew Warner, who is performing well for Chesham in the Home Counties Premier League, is called up.

As well as Cater, there are also recalls for Aston Rowant batsman Tom Condon and Abingdon Vale seamer Joe Butcher.

Tom Price and Jordan Garrett are unavailable due to commitments with Gloucestershire.

“It’s an ongoing battle (to name unchanged teams),” Cater said.

“Matt Warner has been playing very well for Chesham, while Tom has produced some good displays for Rowant and Joe has lots of potential.”

He added: “We know if we perform as well as we can then we will be difficult to beat – but Wales would probably say the same thing.”

Oxfordshire: Cater (capt, Buckingham Tn), Andrew (Ombersley), Butcher (Abingdon V), Clarke (Banbury), Condon (A Rowant), Kaufman (Old Northamptonians), Russell (Thame Town), Smith (Great Tew), Thomas (Great Tew), Tong-Jones (Oxford), Warner (Chesham).