Diana Gael, aged twenty-two, is the youngest cub reporter on the Barling Gazette. She's met Hooky Hefferman previously at a cricket match, so when she comes to Sayle Place she is able to recommend him as a player in the village's annual cricket game.

The squire of Sayle - Sir Colyn Collingford - is a miser and an unscrupulous womaniser. On the day of the great match Hooky's dual role is to make runs for the squire's team and guard the treasures of Sayle against burglars. Soon, though, Hooky has far more than would-be burglars on his hands ...