Brad Bernie came over from New Zealand to join us in 2005 (our Centenary Year). He scored 806 runs in 20 innings for the Saturday 1st XI at an average of 44.77 and also provided the post match entertainment, playing his guitar in the pavilion after the games. The photos are from when Brad, Ness, Hunter and Eve visited The Strand during our 2019 Club Day.

Years played for ACC: 1 season (2005)

Playing role: Batsman and after match entertainment

Batting style: Conservatively aggressive

Bowling style: Inaccurate

Highest score: 101 for the Squirrels. 178 for career

Best bowling figures: None that deserve a mention

Amateur cricketing hero(es):

At ACC, it would have to be Sam Clulow and Ben Sheppard for their somewhat aggressive commitment to the game.

Back home here in NZ, a lad called James Cotter who is a club legend for Taradale Cricket Club.

Favourite cricketer: Martin Crowe

Favourite ACC moment: Mrs Shoes’ Teas

Favourite movie: Die Hard 1

Favourite meal: Mrs Shoes’ Bacon Sandwiches

Biggest passion/hobby outside of cricket: Guitar

What are you doing now?:

I’m still working for Fastway Couriers (now called Aramex NZ), as the Chief Operating Officer.

In regards to cricket I retired last year but am heavily involved in my local club as a committee member, coach and manger to the Junior cricket teams.

What does ACC mean to you?:

It’s hard to put into words what the experience meant to me at ACC.

I wasn’t necessarily seeking a cricket outcome experience when I decided to come to England to play some cricket. I was very keen on the experience and meeting some new people and seeing what cricket is like in England in general.

I had heard so many great stories from other NZ lads around spending a season in England.

It’s fair to say, ACC did not disappoint on all fronts.

What a brilliant club.

The most beautiful ground supported by the most genuine, generous people I have ever met.

All the friends I made in the space of 6 months will never be forgotten, and many of them I stay in touch with.

The Shoemakers in particular deserve special mention as they made it feel like home for me and my wife (Vanessa).

I had the pleasure of taking my young family back to ACC in 2019 and it was awesome to see the new pavilion and catch up with old friends.

So to put it short, the club has a very special place in my heart and I’ll be back for sure over the years to enjoy a pint and a laugh with good people and good friends.