On April 1st 17 enthusiastic cricketers arrived at East Midlands Airport, and having battled their way through the blizzards on the M1, awaited a holiday packed with sun, sea and sand, and perhaps the odd bit of cricket. Portugal did not disappoint. Temperatures between 25 and 30 degrees were the norm, and a cloud was not sighted until we re-entered British airspace on 5th. Upon arrival at Barrington's hotel, having been assigned to our fantastic rooms, we were taken on a brief tour of the site. Gleaming swimming pools, two gymnasiums, a large driving range, a waterproof outdoor pool table, a large cricket field with two nets, mini-fridges, huge amounts of tropical fruit and large TV screens were stared at longingly, and then promptly we were taken to lunch. The food, as became the norm for the entire trip, was sensational, with a huge range of choice allowing even the less cultured members of our side to leave satisfied. The cricket pitch was pounced upon for the afternoon, with a three hour net session allowing the bowlers to find some rhythm, and the batsmen to establish some sort of form. Leaving somewhat redder than when we started, the outdoor pool was enforced upon us- disguised as a 'warm down', this cruel attempt at torture was particularly enjoyed by messrs Boswell and Highfield, their smiles clearly visible as we gasped when we arose from the icy depths. Dinner was a welcome sight- seabass and beef (or in the cases of Godrich, Brown and Reeson, both!) were the choices, and both were devoured by the squad. A cricket quiz immediately followed, which saw an incredibly close contest, as MC Highfield entertained us with his usual mix of tales and jokes. The evening stretched out before us, the senior members of the squad were dragged kicking and screaming towards the throngs of revellers in Val De Lobo, and a relaxing night was had by all.
 
Wednesday, and the first full day of training, beckoned bright and hot, but with a cool breeze to soothe our increasingly tired limbs. The squad was split into two, and whilst one pumped large (in the case of Reeson and Brown) and small (in the case of S. Storey) weights, the other was manipulated around the outdoor field by Mr Boswell and his fielding drills. Special mention must also go to breakfast, which saw bacon, sausage and beans continually being brought before us. After this we began a series of 'cricket scenarios', designed to replicate match situations, enabling us to learn how to respond to the pressures of close run chases. They proved challenging and hugely enjoyable, and everyone agreed a lot had been learnt. After lunch, a Twenty20 game was arranged amongst ourselves, and the batsmen and bowlers took the opportunity to build up match fitness and work on their techniques. Tired yet satisfied, once more the cold pool beckoned, and as we simmered quietly in the shallows several educated members of the side (Terry and Cobbett) took the chance to ponder some philosophical problems, whilst others looked ahead to the BBQ. This proved to be a fantastic evening, and having consumed various meats in huge quantities, we took part in a golfing challenge organised by Barrington's resident professional. Assisted by Mr Highfield, team B proved victorious, and as we marvelled at the skills of the pro, he explained to us the final challenge. This involved hitting a golf ball balanced on top of the end of a club that had been thrust into the ground. Hitting the ball from waist height, we were required to hit the ball over the fence at the end of the range (which he said would require a distance of approximately 250 metres), and if we did so, we won a free holiday for 2 at Barringtons. Inspired, both Brown and Perkins cleared the fence with ease, whilst other members of the squad chose to break the poor chap's clubs! After the nights frivolities, which included some rowdy activities with the pool table, we retired to bed, awaiting the arrrival of real opposition the next day.
 
The next day dawned even hotter, and after a morning of fielding and weights (the groups switched round) our opposition arrived. Some were dressed in Bermuda shorts, and all appeared somewhat 'village' in appearance, so we awaited the start with general interest. Batting first, we scored 122-3, which we felt a decent total on a slow pitch. Having restricted the opposition to 9-3, we then proceeded to ensure everyone was given a chance, which left a very close game won marginally by the opposition. Particular mention must go to Robinson, who bowled excellently, and Sam Storey, who fielded fantastically throughout the trip. The second game was slightly more relaxed, and with several of the opposition working in the evening, it was effectively a game against ourselves. More valuable practice was had however, and even Mr Boswell took part, giving plenty of 'verbal banter' to his own squad members as they arrived at the crease! Followed by the customary swim, dinner and a 'team building exercise', which proved very interesting, we once again departed into Val de Lobo. Sadly the already legendary Miguel was absent from bar duty, so his jokes were very much missed, but once again we relaxed by the sea and remarked upon the snow that was falling in Nottingham. Reeson cleverly decided to forget his wallet for a second time, and despite Brown's offer to help him find it, it had apparently disappeared. The local police on their scooters were sadly unable to assist, and Mr Highfields words of wisdom put an end to the matter: 'we can all make mistakes once, but to make them twice is inexcusable'. Reeson went to bed with his tail firmly between his legs.
 
Our final full day in Val de Lobo dawned as bright as the others, and the beach beckoned. First however we took part in a Yoga class, which saw our less flexible squad members howling as they were stretched into rather uncustomary positions, and two boys who cannot be named (Reeson and Bexon) falling asleep and disrupting our tranquility by snoring loudly. After lunch we departed to the beach, where we entertained the locals with beach-cricket and the infamous 'kerbudee', which had to be terminated early to ensure Storey didn't injure someone, most notably his own younger brother... back to the hotel we went, and changed for dinner (steak and chips) which was typically fantastic. We then went outside to play various games, such as 'fingers in the middle' and 'the freezemaster'. Mr Highfield then led a round of signing, which culminated in a glorious rendition of Jerusalem, our resounding cries reverberating throughout the hotel. Our final night out saw tales told (by Mr Highfield) and fun had by all, even some of the younger boys, and then it was back to the hotel for a few hours sleep before our early breakfast. Having thanked our hosts, who had been fabulous, we left for our 9.30am flight, and the pounding rain at around midday confirmed that we were nearing home. Walking out of the plane and seeing our breath before us was slightly strange, but absolutely exhausted, we dragged ourselves to our parents' cars and made the short journey home.
 
Thanks must go to Mr Highfield and Mr Boswell, who were fantastic throughout the trip- it was superbly organised, and without exception each member of the squad told me that he had loved every minute of it. Barringtons were also superb, and I have no doubts we shall return in future years. We all agreed we felt much better prepared for the season than in previous years, and we hope this shall kick-start a successful season.
 
Frankie Brown 6T2