The 1990 season proved to be the hangover year. After an opening home defeat by Berkhamsted, Radlett never really looked like retaining their crown and finished fourth after two losses and too many draws – with North Mymms taking their turn as champions.
John Carr, son of Donald and a future England and Wales Cricket Board official at Lord’s, decided to give up county cricket after losing form at Middlesex in 1989 to start a banking career with Barclays. He became regularly available to Radlett for the 1991 season, and a second Herts League title was secured in overwhelming fashion. Carr, of Upper Station Road, batted so well that he agreed to rejoin Middlesex and resume his professional career. Already one of the best slip fielders on the first class circuit, his new lease of life took him to the top of the national first class averages in 1994 – Brian Lara’s treble year at Warwickshire – and to the brink of England recognition.