Name: Neil Tustian (AKA: "Stretch Armstrong")

Cricket: RH Bat; RA Medium-Fast

Debut: 2006

A big powerful figure and the most unlikely looking of accountants, Neil was introduced to the club in 2006 via Dave Passmore and Alister Veitch.

Neil quickly endeared himself to his team mates, not only with his warm and friendly nature but also on the back of a string of excellent fielding performances, quickly earning himself the nickname ‘Stretch’ for his ability to reach balls he seemingly had no right to get anywhere near.

He also proved a very effective bowler, picking up wickets every time he was called upon and it was only the lack of appearances / overs that prevented him from being in contention for the Bowling Trophy.

Unfortunately opportunities have also been limited in subsequent seasons; both by a bad back and family responsibilities, but he still managed to pick up 11 wickets in just three appearances during 2007.

This included an inspired performance at Moulsford where he started off with an exceptional flying catch in covers that left the batsman staring in disbelief, and followed up with a match winning 6-20 (the second best figures for an Ipsden bowler in an away fixture).

How much we’ll see of him in coming seasons remains to be seen but he’ll always be very welcome.

(MH 2009)

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