Outgoing High Wycombe skipper Dan Marles has talked of his time at London Road, including his side’s 2023 title win.
Marles spoke to Sports Shots after he brought the curtain down on a five-year stint at the helm, and he certainly did it in style. Under Marles stewardship he took Wycombe to the 2023 Home Counties Premier League, Division One title undefeated.
It really was a great year as captain. The season couldn’t haven’t gone any better. Going unbeaten was a fantastic achievement!
After joining from Finchampstead, who he took to the Division One title in 2017, the outgoing skipper has won three titles during his spell in charge.
The last of his titles, which he admits was the most pleasing, saw his team go the whole campaign without losing, but how did they do it?
I think the key strength last year was finding ways to win when we were in a bit of trouble. Someone always stood up at a key time to get us over the line!
The league is traditionally very competitive each year, but we asked the departing skipper what, if any, things stood out in that unbeaten run.
I believe winning away at Wargrave, Banbury and Aston Rowant were big moments in our year. They are always tough places to go and getting wins there really set up the year.
We had four batters score over 500 runs, plus four bowlers took over 25 wickets, which was a massive reason we had the success we did.
The title journey also saw Marles give debuts to some of the club’s young, up-and-coming talents, who, in turn, also performed.
It was really exciting to bring the young talents of HWCC into the first team. The club has some very exciting youngsters who will be the spine of the time in years to come.
Marles is definitely going out on a high, plus he leaves the club in a good place. But why now?
It is the right time to step down. I’ve captained for five years at Wycombe and three years at Finch (Finchampstead). I’ve got a busy year away from cricket next year and want to focus on my own batting!
So what next for Dan Marles?
I will still be playing at HWCC next year. I absolutely love playing for the club and want to push for another title! The club will be appointing a new captain very shortly.
Sports Shots would like to thank Dan for his time and wish him well in the future.
