A new look Cambs IIIrd team had a number of new faces to start the season to face Northants IInd team. Debutant Tom Zhang settled in after a hard introduction losing 9-21, 21-18, 26-28 in his singles. A hard working talent, and one for the future. Geoff Green lost in straight sets against a hard working Northants player in a close game 17-21, 20-22. The ladies brought out old juniors Holly Gale and Emma Brewster who are a welcome return. Holly had a hard start, loosing 14-21, 11-21. Emma however powered her way to a 3 set victory: 15-21, 21-12, 21-14.

The doubles had new pairings on show. The men each went to 3. Tom playing with Paul Martel were unlucky to lose both, but showed exciting moments of what could come. Will Hodgkinson and Geoff took 1 game but slipped to a loss in the other. The new ladies Holly and Emma were undone by experienced Northants pairs. Stacy Knoop and Sharon Chandler were on form winning the first 21-16, 21-17. However, they narrowly lost in 3 ends in the next.

Going into the mixed, Cambs were still positive. Paul and Sharon were quick in winning 21-17, 21-10. Geoff and Emma also won. Strength and power taking them to 30-29, 21-13. Will and Holly lost in 3 with a close game. Holly showed great touch, but the pair were defeated by a steady and experienced Northants pair.

Final result: Cambs IIIrd 5, Northants IInd 10

A loss, but lots of positives with exciting new players.