Tuesday, April 27 saw the opening round of fixtures in the 2010 West Wold League season. It will consist of 10 games (six teams play each other twice, home and away) and will finish on June 29. The winning team will play the President's XI on August 3.
From July 6 a knockout tournament will be played over the remaining four weeks of the season. See fixtures below. League contact email is pmljsavage@hotmail.com
TEAMS
1. Brocklesby
2. Caistor Hurdiss
3. Market Rasen
4. Middle Rasen
5. Owmby
6. HC Wright.
FIXTURES
April 27:
1 v 3
5 v 2
6 v 4
May 4:
2 v 1
3 v 6
4 v 5
May 11:
1 v 4
6 v 5
3 v 2
May 18:
1 v 6
5 v 3
2 v 4
May 25:
2 v 6
1 v 5
3 v 4
June 1:
3 v 1
2 v 5
4 v 6
June 8:
2 v 3
4 v 1
5 v 6
June 15:
6 v 1
3 v 5
4 v 2
June 22:
1 v 2
6 v 3
5 v 4
June 29:
6 v 2
5 v 1
4 v 3
League winners to play August 3 v President's XI
TUESDAY KNOCKOUT
Group A
Market Rasen
Middle Rasen
Owmby
Group B
Brocklesby
Caistor Hurdiss
HC Wright
July 6:
Owmby v Market Rasen
HC Wright v Brocklesby
July 13:
Middle Rasen v Market Rasen
Brocklesby v Caistor Hurdiss
July 20:
Owmby v Middle Rasen
Caistor Hurdiss v HC Wright
July 27:
Winner Group A v Winner Group B
Lincs Cricket Latest will be delighted to publish any match reports, unusual incidents, photographs or other information about this competition. Sorry to see that my old team, Brigg Town, are no longer taking part; I enjoyed umpiring for them in a few Tuesday games last season. But not as much as playing in this competition for Brocklesby Park back in the mid-1980s and well into the 1990s. Some interesting trips to places like Glentham (particularly the changing accommodation), keeping wicket (looking straight into the sun) at Nettleton Mines, and batting on the second square at South Kelsey's Skipworth Ridge venue.
Yes, they managed to fit in a secondary strip or two on the outfield at this postage stamp-sized ground.
Friday, 30 April 2010
Thursday, 29 April 2010
WORKING PARTY MEMBERS
Those invited to sit on the Lincolnshire League's Working Party into digital results and registrations are: Bob Welton, league chairman; Nigel Fisher, results secretary; Andy Sharp, statistician; Mark Atkins/Danny Bullock, Haxey; Graham Hackney/his nominated substitute, Cleethorpes; Mick Barton, Stamford Homes, current secretary of the year).
MILESTONE MOMENT
Ann Boulton was the Lincs Cricket Latest follower who advanced the site counter to the 30,000 milestone last night, she tells us.
MEGGIES WIN SEASON'S OPENER
By Graham Hackney
Cleethorpes’ batting will have to improve over the Bank Holiday weekend as they face probably their two hardest home games of the year in Scarborough on Saturday and Champions York on Monday. Both game start at 12 noon with spectators most welcome and refreshments available in the clubhouse. Cleethorpes 2nds also have a double-header, travelling to Horncastle on Saturday and Barton Town on the Monday. The 3rd X1 are without a game this weekend, while the 4ths travel to Outcasts 2nds.
Sunday sees the North Lindsey League X1 open their defence of the title with a home fixture against Appleby-Frodingham (2pm start). Alex Osmond leads the Academy X1 away at the picturesque Brocklesby Park.
Cleethorpes 1st X1 got their 2010 Yorkshire League campaign off to an exciting start with a tense 22-run victory over a youthful Yorkshire Academy side at Chichester Road on Saturday. Boosted by New Zealand International Peter Fulton, who arrived on Friday, Skipper James Osmond won the toss and elected to bat in glorious spring sunshine. Fulton opened the innings with Bill Kirby but having made just one was beaten by an excellent yorker from Hargreaves to disappoint the Cleethorpes faithful. Kirby was joined by Eddie Carlton and the pair set about rebuilding the innings with a patient 56-run second wicket partnership. The Academy bowlers were finding conditions to their liking as Carlton was repeatedly beaten outside his off stump. Kirby pounced on anything loose and looked most impresssive pulling Ashraf for successive boundaries. Having taken the total to 64, Carlton departed for 14 bowled attempting to inject some impetus into the innings. Academy spinner Randhawa was extracting bounce and turn as Alex Osmond found it difficult to keep the scoreboard ticking and perished for 7 to leave Meggies 96-3. Kirby passed fifty with a glorious cover drive but was next to go chipping the ball to midwicket having hit seven boundaries in his 132-ball inngs of 74. With Cleethorpes struggling to post a total Skipper Osmond(11) joined Charlie Tomlinson but he went in identical fashion to Kirby as a disappointing chip to midwicket left them 129-5 as Academy's spinners began to turn the screw. Tomlinson had two lucky escapes as chances went begging while James Windeatt, making his Cleethorpes Yorkshire league debut showed a rare sign of aggression when depositing Hughes over the ropes for the inngs only six. Hughes had his revenge next ball when Windeatt (13) was adjudged to have gloved a ball to the keeper while Tomlinson (20) soon followed driving to cover. The innings began to subside and at the close Cleethorpes had tailed away to a disappointing 165-9 in their 55 overs. Randhawa had bowled impressively throughout to pick up 6/51 in 18 overs for the Academy.
With quick wickets needed to have an chance of victory, Cleethorpes opened up with Andy Ellis and Jack Harrison. Despite a few early scares Academy had reached 25 before Ellis induced a sharp gully catch from Windeatt to claim the first scalp. Geldhart and Amjad then added 40 for the second wicket and were threatening to take the game away from Cleethorpes. The introduction of Alex Osmond though soon brought dividends as Amjad was dismissed lbw before Geldahart was run out by Fulton attempting a suicidal second. With Harry Clewett bowling in tandem with Osmond the runs began to dry up as Cleethorpes applied the pressure. Clewett dismissed Hughes thanks to a fine slip catch from Fulton and Osmond had Girling adjudged lbw soon after as the Academy innings faltered. With the Academy tail resembling rabbits caught in the headlights Fulton replaced Clewett in a move that was to prove a masterstroke from the Cleethorpes Captain. In his first over he removed the belligerent Hargreaves lbw for 28 who looked the one Academy batsman that could steer his side home. Coad soon followed courtesy of an Alex Osmond catch and with just 23 runs required for victory Fulton bowled Ashraf to complete an unlikely win for Meggies. Fulton finished with fine debut figures of 3/9 in 4.4 overs, while Osmond had ripped out the middle-order with 4/45 in his 19-over spell.
Paul Sunley’s 2nd X1 could not build on last weekend’s convincing win over Alkborough in the Lincs League Premier, as they fell by 37 runs to the same opponents away last Saturday. They bowled much better this week to restrict a strong batting line-up to 174-9 in their 50 overs. Pick of the attack was Richard Griffin with 4/23 in eight overs while Rob Brice (2/41 in 12) and Stuart Harvey (2/40 in 13) kept Alkborough in check. Kris Adams made a welcome return for Cleethorpes but remained wicketless as his six overs went for just 14. In reply Rob Griffin (21) and Yaniv Judah (23) got Cleethorpes off to an excellent start adding 50 for the first wicket. However, once both departed in quick succession the innings fell away and they were bowled out for just 137 in the 45th over. Only Brice with 20 had threatened to bring the game back Meggies way.Cleethorpes take five points from a game they will feel they could have won.
Paul Hewstone’s 3rd X1 began there defence of their First Division crown away at Nettleham 2nds last Saturday and fell to an agonizing 3-wicket defeat with Nettleham’s number eight hitting the winning runs off the final delivery. Cleethorpes had posted a challenging 197-9 in their 45 overs. Their stand out performer was Indy Hayre who hit a superb 89 balazing the ball to all parts. He received good support from Skipper Hewstone (29) as the pair laid the foundations with a century fifth wicket stand. Young Ryan Harrison (19) again showed good promise opening the innings. Despite reducing Nettleham to 40-4 Cleethorpes' bowling was proving wayward with Nettleham fifth wicket pair also racking up a century stand. Mike Shelton has claimed three early wickets before the game started to slip away. The introduction of John Mansfield swung the game back as he also picked up three wickets before Nettleham claimed victory in the final over. Mansfield finished with excellent figures of 3/29 in 7 overs with Shelton 3/37 in 8. Simon Taylor bowled wel early on and was unlucky to finish with only 1/54 in 14 overs. Cleethorpes claim 7 points to open their challenge for the title.
The 4th X1 slipped to their second league defeat of the season going down by 5 wickets to Alkborough 2nds at the Stamford Club. Having posted a decent 190-9 in 45 overs, the villagers wasted little time in racing to their target in 36.3 overs. Mike Chamberlain hit 59 when opening for Cleethorpes and received good support from veteran Will Abe who hit 35 and Josh Latimer who made 27. An inexperienced attack saw Ben Marris open the bowling for Cleethorpes, while the pick of the bowlers was Ian Mansfield’s 3/20 in eight overs. Young spinners George Hawkey (1/55 in 12.3) and Max Robinson (1/48 in 9) showed up well for the Meggies as Kris Richardson’s side pick up six points.
Graham's picture above shows Peter Fulton being welcomed to Chichester Road by James Osmond (left) and Paul Hewstone.
Below: The bails drop off as Peter Fulton claims the tenth wicket against the Academy on Saturday, followed by Cleethorpes players mobbing overseas professional Peter Fulton after completing a tense victory.
Wednesday, 28 April 2010
WILL IT BE YOU?
Just noted the Lincs Cricket Latest site counter is about to reach 30,000. Who's going to take us to the magical milestone?
LET'S GET DIGITAL
Monday, May 17 has now been agreed for the initial meeting of the Working Party established to examine the "fors" and "againsts" of introducing the PlayCricket digital results and registrations system in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League.
The Working Party - under the chairmanship of Bob Welton - will be deliberating at the Black Bull, Brigg, from 8pm. A report will be prepared following the Working Party's discussions, and this will be considered by club delegates at the league's mid-season meeting in July.
Any change to the way results are recorded, and registrations made, will require various rule changes which can only be agreed at an AGM (the Lincs League's is always in October).
The Working Party - under the chairmanship of Bob Welton - will be deliberating at the Black Bull, Brigg, from 8pm. A report will be prepared following the Working Party's discussions, and this will be considered by club delegates at the league's mid-season meeting in July.
Any change to the way results are recorded, and registrations made, will require various rule changes which can only be agreed at an AGM (the Lincs League's is always in October).
CHEER(S) TO A GREAT SEASON
By Ann Boulton
Newly promoted Boston's 18-year-old opening bat, Jonathan Cheer, made a dream start to his Lincolnshire ECB season with Saturday's top score of 138. Boston also got off to the best possible start, picking up 20 points against last year's runners-up Skegness.
Tuesday, 27 April 2010
FRIENDLY SIDE OF CRICKET
The Lincolnshire Co-op Sunday Friendly Cricket League starts on May 9 (10am) and finishes on August 1. Competing teams are from the Scunthorpe area. Taking part will be Scunthorpe United, Lincoln Imp, DNF Rileys, Cross Keys, Keadby CC, Lindsey Lodge Hospice (Ashby Star), Priory Hotel,Sherpa Hotel, Howden’s Lodge and Garthorpe CC (Bay Horse).
Sunday, July 4 will see a 10am start for the Paul Gordon KnockOut Cup
Tournament at Heslam Park, home of Scunthorpe Town CC.
Sunday, July 4 will see a 10am start for the Paul Gordon KnockOut Cup
Tournament at Heslam Park, home of Scunthorpe Town CC.
Monday, 26 April 2010
BRAVE RON BATTLES ON
By Andy Sharp, Keelby
Keelby CC would like to wish a speedy recovery to Grimsby Umpire Ron May following Saturday's Lincs League Division 4 game at Keelby against Caistor. Ron was felled by a full-blooded straight drive from Keelby's Bruce Roberts that unfortunately gave him a nasty cut on his leg. After treatment from a first-aider, Ron was determined to stand throughout the remainder of Keelby's innings and then the whole of Caistor's innings. Ron was actually standing alone in the game and I'm sure both Captains were very pleased not to have to made the tricky decision of how to complete the game without him.
Keelby CC would like to wish a speedy recovery to Grimsby Umpire Ron May following Saturday's Lincs League Division 4 game at Keelby against Caistor. Ron was felled by a full-blooded straight drive from Keelby's Bruce Roberts that unfortunately gave him a nasty cut on his leg. After treatment from a first-aider, Ron was determined to stand throughout the remainder of Keelby's innings and then the whole of Caistor's innings. Ron was actually standing alone in the game and I'm sure both Captains were very pleased not to have to made the tricky decision of how to complete the game without him.
TOWNHILL'S 'NINE-FOR' ROLLS RASEN 2nds
By Andrew Richley, Market Rasen 2nds
Looking to breathe life into their 2010 Lincs League Division 4 campaign after their inauspicious hammering at Morton, a ‘Young Rasen 2nd XI’ (TM) travelled to Hykeham in both hope and, some, expectation.
Winning the toss on a balmy day at Memorial Field, Rasen decided to bat first on a track that, whilst it had plenty of grass on it, felt solid enough and was accompanied by a fast outfield. Simon Clark and Ivan Nash opened up for Rasen and made the decision look a sound one. Hykeham had struggled to get a side out for the match – eventually ending up with 10 men in the field – and the opening pair were happy to wait for the bad ball that they could hit into the numerous gaps. The pair eschewed the risky in favour of stolid defence and the occasional smite as Josh Taylor and Andy Fletcher made the openers work for their runs. A groin strain for Taylor brought Liam Townhill into the attack and whilst the debutant looked unassuming enough, his assortment of swing, seamers and cutters was, eventually, to take the game away from Rasen.
Clark and Nash settled into the game as they looked to meet their first objective – taking Rasen past the 41 they had totalled the week before. This was safely accomplished as Clark hung on doggedly, struggling to time the ball, but not often looking uncomfortable, to keep the belligerent Nash company. Dealing mainly in boundaries, Nash punished anything loose from the Hykeham attack, peppering the square leg boundary in particular, but also unfurling a couple of lovely cover drives.
Having taken Rasen to 81 in the 23rd over, Clark (21) undid his patient work with a heave to leg, off Townhill, that was well taken by Taylor on the stroke of drinks. The same combination bagged the next wicket with an eerily familiar shot to leave Rasen 89 for 2 and 15 year-old George Fussey striding to the crease. A sparkling cameo from the youngster (19 with 4 fours) saw Rasen threaten to break the shackles, with Hykeham’s first team captain – playing with the 2nds because of work commitments – taken for 12 in the first over he bowled to Fussey. Nash continued to cash in, compiling his first senior half-century for the club as he took advantage of Hykeham’s weakened attack and turned one of his ubiquitous good starts into an innings of real substance, until being the fifth man out for 76 (12 fours and 1 six).
Unfortunately, the good work of the top order was undone as a succession of rash shots to the excellent Townhill – and a surprisingly ambitious call for a quick single from Rasen’s skipper – saw the young line-up collapse from 130 for 2 to 151 all out in the 36th over, with Liam Townhill claiming the extraordinary figures of 9 for 54 from 15 overs. Whilst the batting effort from the Rase Park outfit had been an immense improvement on the week before, the failure to bat out their overs was to cost them dear.
Hykeham’s reply got off to a rapid start with Jack Ward (22) performing a fine IPL audition as he led his team to 40 from the first five overs, before being the second man to perish, bowled by Aaron Wells. Rasen’s spinners did their best to pull the run-rate back with Fussey (1 for 25 from 7 overs) finding plenty of turn and the skipper, Andy Richley, back in parsimonious form, sending down ten overs for only 18 runs. However, catches – both easy (we’re looking at you Skip) and hard – were dropped and, as a result, Hykeham’s fourth wicket pair were able to settle in and take the game away from Rasen. Josh Taylor (70*, 13 fours) was the mainstay of Hykeham’s batting effort. His driving on the front foot was particularly strong, with some crunching cover drives and, in particular, an on-drive when he’d only just arrived at the crease being both brutal and classical at the same time.
Lee Buick (31*) kept Taylor company and, whilst he never looked entirely comfortable, the longer he ground out his time at the crease the less likely it appeared that he would perish. Rasen rung the changes in an attempt to ‘buy’ a wicket and continued to work hard in the field but were unable to stop Hykeham from chasing down the total in the 39th over for the loss of 3 wickets.
A much improved performance from Rasen 2nds ended, frustratingly, with them garnering only one more point than they had in last week’s trouncing. However, with seven U-19s in the team, much heart can be taken from the overall improvement.
Looking to breathe life into their 2010 Lincs League Division 4 campaign after their inauspicious hammering at Morton, a ‘Young Rasen 2nd XI’ (TM) travelled to Hykeham in both hope and, some, expectation.
Winning the toss on a balmy day at Memorial Field, Rasen decided to bat first on a track that, whilst it had plenty of grass on it, felt solid enough and was accompanied by a fast outfield. Simon Clark and Ivan Nash opened up for Rasen and made the decision look a sound one. Hykeham had struggled to get a side out for the match – eventually ending up with 10 men in the field – and the opening pair were happy to wait for the bad ball that they could hit into the numerous gaps. The pair eschewed the risky in favour of stolid defence and the occasional smite as Josh Taylor and Andy Fletcher made the openers work for their runs. A groin strain for Taylor brought Liam Townhill into the attack and whilst the debutant looked unassuming enough, his assortment of swing, seamers and cutters was, eventually, to take the game away from Rasen.
Clark and Nash settled into the game as they looked to meet their first objective – taking Rasen past the 41 they had totalled the week before. This was safely accomplished as Clark hung on doggedly, struggling to time the ball, but not often looking uncomfortable, to keep the belligerent Nash company. Dealing mainly in boundaries, Nash punished anything loose from the Hykeham attack, peppering the square leg boundary in particular, but also unfurling a couple of lovely cover drives.
Having taken Rasen to 81 in the 23rd over, Clark (21) undid his patient work with a heave to leg, off Townhill, that was well taken by Taylor on the stroke of drinks. The same combination bagged the next wicket with an eerily familiar shot to leave Rasen 89 for 2 and 15 year-old George Fussey striding to the crease. A sparkling cameo from the youngster (19 with 4 fours) saw Rasen threaten to break the shackles, with Hykeham’s first team captain – playing with the 2nds because of work commitments – taken for 12 in the first over he bowled to Fussey. Nash continued to cash in, compiling his first senior half-century for the club as he took advantage of Hykeham’s weakened attack and turned one of his ubiquitous good starts into an innings of real substance, until being the fifth man out for 76 (12 fours and 1 six).
Unfortunately, the good work of the top order was undone as a succession of rash shots to the excellent Townhill – and a surprisingly ambitious call for a quick single from Rasen’s skipper – saw the young line-up collapse from 130 for 2 to 151 all out in the 36th over, with Liam Townhill claiming the extraordinary figures of 9 for 54 from 15 overs. Whilst the batting effort from the Rase Park outfit had been an immense improvement on the week before, the failure to bat out their overs was to cost them dear.
Hykeham’s reply got off to a rapid start with Jack Ward (22) performing a fine IPL audition as he led his team to 40 from the first five overs, before being the second man to perish, bowled by Aaron Wells. Rasen’s spinners did their best to pull the run-rate back with Fussey (1 for 25 from 7 overs) finding plenty of turn and the skipper, Andy Richley, back in parsimonious form, sending down ten overs for only 18 runs. However, catches – both easy (we’re looking at you Skip) and hard – were dropped and, as a result, Hykeham’s fourth wicket pair were able to settle in and take the game away from Rasen. Josh Taylor (70*, 13 fours) was the mainstay of Hykeham’s batting effort. His driving on the front foot was particularly strong, with some crunching cover drives and, in particular, an on-drive when he’d only just arrived at the crease being both brutal and classical at the same time.
Lee Buick (31*) kept Taylor company and, whilst he never looked entirely comfortable, the longer he ground out his time at the crease the less likely it appeared that he would perish. Rasen rung the changes in an attempt to ‘buy’ a wicket and continued to work hard in the field but were unable to stop Hykeham from chasing down the total in the 39th over for the loss of 3 wickets.
A much improved performance from Rasen 2nds ended, frustratingly, with them garnering only one more point than they had in last week’s trouncing. However, with seven U-19s in the team, much heart can be taken from the overall improvement.
GRIMSBY MIDWEEK OPENERS
The opening game in the Ibwest Cup, overseen by the John Pettit Grimsby and District Cricket League, is on Thursday, April 29 - a round two tie between Old Clee and Old Winghams (at Stamford Club).
Thursday also sees the start of the ever-popular Midweek League.
Division five: Clee Utd Old Boys v Crows Nest 1, Keelby v Clee Vagabonds, Stallingborough v Norfolk Line.
Division six: Norvatis 2 v CSSC Emplex, Phoenix 2 v Old Medical 2, PO Milan 2 v Crows Nest 2.
It's good to see that the Saturday Division of the John Pettit Grimsby and District Cricket League this season sports nine teams - a healthy number.
Opening games scheduled for Saturday, May 1 are: Clee Academy v Clee United Old Boys, Cuxwold v Rose and Crown, North Thoresby v PO Milan, Phoenix v Old Calthumpians. Harvest Moon are not in action on day one.
Thursday also sees the start of the ever-popular Midweek League.
Division five: Clee Utd Old Boys v Crows Nest 1, Keelby v Clee Vagabonds, Stallingborough v Norfolk Line.
Division six: Norvatis 2 v CSSC Emplex, Phoenix 2 v Old Medical 2, PO Milan 2 v Crows Nest 2.
It's good to see that the Saturday Division of the John Pettit Grimsby and District Cricket League this season sports nine teams - a healthy number.
Opening games scheduled for Saturday, May 1 are: Clee Academy v Clee United Old Boys, Cuxwold v Rose and Crown, North Thoresby v PO Milan, Phoenix v Old Calthumpians. Harvest Moon are not in action on day one.
Sunday, 25 April 2010
OUTCASTS LOSE TO ALFORD, DIV ONE
By Glen Sands
Despite producing a much better performance than the one a week earlier at Scothern, Outcasts still failed to pick up their first win of the season when slipping to a narrow 4-run defeat against Alford who were relegated from the Lincs Premier Division last season.
Will Garlick was first to go when Alford were offered first use of the Hirst Priory pitch when he was very well caught by Mark Coulman, off Liam McAnaney, at mid-off, his diving effort removing the opener for just a single.
Then Mark Irving and Matt Keeling steadied things for the visitors with a purposeful partnership. Things might have been so different, though, were it not for a dropped catch that saw Keeling offered a life before he had got off the mark, the right-hander going on to make 66 in Alford's total of 193 for 6.
Irving reached a cautious 19 before he chipped an easy chance to Simon Lewis, off Jason Whiteley, with the total on 44 but veteran Neil Calvert joined Keeling to add 86 valuable runs as Outcasts toiled to pick up a third wicket.
Keeling eventually went when caught by Lewis, again off Whiteley, then Calvert was joined by Rob Dixon (13) Andrew White (24 in 14 deliveries) and Tom Stocks who was superbly stumped by Graham Oxley, off Tom Sharpe, without scoring.
Calvert held things together with an unbeaten 56 as Alford ended on 193 for 6, Whiteley finishing with 3 for 53 and Tom Sharpe 2 for 37 for the Priorymen.
Outcasts quickly lost opener Oliver Coulman when they set about chasing their total, caught at slip by Tom White off Glyn James for two. Then Craig McAnaney and David Hobson settled things down and drew the sting from the young Alford bowlers.
Hobson had reached 20 when he was superbly caught by Neil Calvert with a diving effort at mid-on, off the bowling of Tom Stocks, and when McAnaney followed him back to the pavilion for 30 the total stood at 64 for 3.
Mark Coulman was disappointed to have been adjudged to have edged a catch behind to Alan White off Stocks, and for a while all seemed lost - but Andy Torr and Simon Lewis then produced a gritty fightback with Torr, in particular, batting aggressively in a partnership of 74 valuable runs.
He appeared in no trouble as he made 53, including 10 boundaries, but from nowhere he hit the ball straight to James, off slow bowler Crow, and the game changed once again.
Mark Irving was introduced into the attack and instantly tied up one end which meant risks were having to taken at the other - and suddenly wickets began to fall one again.
Tom Sharpe was easily caught by Keeling, off Crow, for seven and Whiteley followed suit for the same score when he was caught by Dixon, off Stocks. This put the onus on Lewis as Alford looked to sweep through the lower order and it produced a nervous finish which saw Outcasts needing 17 from the last three overs with three wickets in hand - but Lewis just couldnt find the necessary boundaries required and was eventually bowled by Stocks for 33.
Joe Tonge did manage to smack one over the ropes in the final over which saw the Isle side needing a six to tie from the last delivery but it wasn't to be and they ended their 45 overs on 189 for 9, just four runs short of their target, Tom Stocks finishing the innings with 6 for 28 from nine overs.
So Outcasts have lost both their opening games of the 2010 season but this was an improvement on their first performance and they can travel to Broughton feeling that they are hopefully not far away from that first valuable win.
Outcasts 2nds played their first game in Division Two of the Lincolnshire League following their terrific title victory last summer but they failed to pick up the win they had hoped for when being beaten at Market Rasen by seven wickets.
Skipper Russell Fletcher scored 50 not out as Outcasts made 155 for 7 but Rasen cruised to 156 for 3 in reply to inflict a first defeat on the newly-promoted Isle side who will look to bounce back straight away with a home fixture against Cleethorpes 4ths on Saturday.
Passing of John Green: Finally, Outcasts CC would like to offer their most sincere condolences to the family of John Green, who graced the cricket fields around the Isle for Belton and Haxey CC. John was, in his time, one of the best batsmen of his era and although he was often the scourge of other Isle teams he was nevertheless an outstanding player and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
Despite producing a much better performance than the one a week earlier at Scothern, Outcasts still failed to pick up their first win of the season when slipping to a narrow 4-run defeat against Alford who were relegated from the Lincs Premier Division last season.
Will Garlick was first to go when Alford were offered first use of the Hirst Priory pitch when he was very well caught by Mark Coulman, off Liam McAnaney, at mid-off, his diving effort removing the opener for just a single.
Then Mark Irving and Matt Keeling steadied things for the visitors with a purposeful partnership. Things might have been so different, though, were it not for a dropped catch that saw Keeling offered a life before he had got off the mark, the right-hander going on to make 66 in Alford's total of 193 for 6.
Irving reached a cautious 19 before he chipped an easy chance to Simon Lewis, off Jason Whiteley, with the total on 44 but veteran Neil Calvert joined Keeling to add 86 valuable runs as Outcasts toiled to pick up a third wicket.
Keeling eventually went when caught by Lewis, again off Whiteley, then Calvert was joined by Rob Dixon (13) Andrew White (24 in 14 deliveries) and Tom Stocks who was superbly stumped by Graham Oxley, off Tom Sharpe, without scoring.
Calvert held things together with an unbeaten 56 as Alford ended on 193 for 6, Whiteley finishing with 3 for 53 and Tom Sharpe 2 for 37 for the Priorymen.
Outcasts quickly lost opener Oliver Coulman when they set about chasing their total, caught at slip by Tom White off Glyn James for two. Then Craig McAnaney and David Hobson settled things down and drew the sting from the young Alford bowlers.
Hobson had reached 20 when he was superbly caught by Neil Calvert with a diving effort at mid-on, off the bowling of Tom Stocks, and when McAnaney followed him back to the pavilion for 30 the total stood at 64 for 3.
Mark Coulman was disappointed to have been adjudged to have edged a catch behind to Alan White off Stocks, and for a while all seemed lost - but Andy Torr and Simon Lewis then produced a gritty fightback with Torr, in particular, batting aggressively in a partnership of 74 valuable runs.
He appeared in no trouble as he made 53, including 10 boundaries, but from nowhere he hit the ball straight to James, off slow bowler Crow, and the game changed once again.
Mark Irving was introduced into the attack and instantly tied up one end which meant risks were having to taken at the other - and suddenly wickets began to fall one again.
Tom Sharpe was easily caught by Keeling, off Crow, for seven and Whiteley followed suit for the same score when he was caught by Dixon, off Stocks. This put the onus on Lewis as Alford looked to sweep through the lower order and it produced a nervous finish which saw Outcasts needing 17 from the last three overs with three wickets in hand - but Lewis just couldnt find the necessary boundaries required and was eventually bowled by Stocks for 33.
Joe Tonge did manage to smack one over the ropes in the final over which saw the Isle side needing a six to tie from the last delivery but it wasn't to be and they ended their 45 overs on 189 for 9, just four runs short of their target, Tom Stocks finishing the innings with 6 for 28 from nine overs.
So Outcasts have lost both their opening games of the 2010 season but this was an improvement on their first performance and they can travel to Broughton feeling that they are hopefully not far away from that first valuable win.
Outcasts 2nds played their first game in Division Two of the Lincolnshire League following their terrific title victory last summer but they failed to pick up the win they had hoped for when being beaten at Market Rasen by seven wickets.
Skipper Russell Fletcher scored 50 not out as Outcasts made 155 for 7 but Rasen cruised to 156 for 3 in reply to inflict a first defeat on the newly-promoted Isle side who will look to bounce back straight away with a home fixture against Cleethorpes 4ths on Saturday.
Passing of John Green: Finally, Outcasts CC would like to offer their most sincere condolences to the family of John Green, who graced the cricket fields around the Isle for Belton and Haxey CC. John was, in his time, one of the best batsmen of his era and although he was often the scourge of other Isle teams he was nevertheless an outstanding player and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
COMING APART
The match balls used in Lincolnshire League matches have a reputation for being hard-wearing, so it was surprising yesterday when the one used to start the division one game between Outcasts and Alford at Hirst Priory went out of shape and then (after only 22 overs) split along the seam and had to be replaced.
If your club suffers something similar, please return the offending ball to a league official.
If your club suffers something similar, please return the offending ball to a league official.
SUPERVISORY ROLE
Umpires in all standards of cricket are now required to supervise the toss - something previously the domain of the skippers. Here, Alkborough 2nds' Andy "Chippy" Clay (left) and his opposite number Dave Langford, from Messingham 2nds, come under the watchful eye of Steve Dixon, officiating in their division two game at West Halton Lane, which Messingham won comfortably on the opening day of the season.
FINE VIEW
Lee Robinson on the sweep during yesterday's Lincs League division three match between Hibaldstow and Barton Town 2nds. Picture kindly supplied by Jon Taylor.
Saturday, 24 April 2010
PREMIER OPENS TODAY
By Ann Boulton
Volcanic ash may have delayed his arrival in Lincoln, but Kiwi Josh Brodie is again set to erupt on to the Readers Lincolnshire ECB Premier League scene with a return to St Giles Avenue.
Lindum have secured the services of their former top batsman for the first half of the new season, giving a huge boost to their batting line-up. He will join Richard Cross, who hit an unbeaten 96 in a pre-season friendly at Skegness and Alex Hornsby, giving Lindum a formidable top order.
Brodie (pictured), who is now a member of the New Zealand Emerging Players side for whom he has scored a century and two 50s, should have arrived last weekend and his team mates are now hoping that flight restrictions will be lifted in time for him to turn out against league newcomers Hartsholme today (Saturday). Hartsholme are captained by Nathan Poundall, with Australian Ben Davis as their overseas player and, while fellow newcomers Boston have played at this level previously, the Ashby Avenue side will be an unknown quantity to many Premier League opponents
Bracebridge Heath are at home to Woodhall Spa, having secured the services of their opponents’ former opening bat Andrew Crook. The champions also have a new wicketkeeper in Jason Scheepers , newly signed from demoted Messingham.
Scheepers replaces Peter Morgan following the county player’s move to take over as captain at Bourne who have also signed batsman Conrad Louth from Woodhall and are expecting an overseas player from Pakistan.
Morgan will enjoy his first outing as skipper when he takes his team to Grimsby who welcome back popular Sri Lankan Gihan Perera. Grimsby have lost Geoff Middleton, who is now playing at Lindum but will be relying on their ever-improving young side to hold their own once again in the top flight.
Boston’s first fixture back in the Premier League is away at Skegness who are now skippered by Tony Santini and were strongly rumoured to have recruited Jacob Oram! Their signing did attend the same school as the Kiwi international but is, in fact, 19 year old all-rounder Roald Bradenhurst, a member of the New Zealand Centre of Excellence.
An unexpected bonus for the seasiders has been the return of Saeed Bariwala who had intimated that he might be moving overseas and Skegness have also welcomed back batsman Peter Houghton.
Boston have retained the services of Australian Daniel Milgate and he and the much-improved Cheer brothers, Colin and Jonathan, will be relishing their return to Premier League cricket.
Louth, in their first full season back at London Road, begin their programme with a trip down to Market Deeping. Louth, captained once again by Arran Brindle, have also signed a New Zealander, Seth Rance, while Deeping have a 19 year old Australian Brodie Andrew in their side which will again be skippered by David Gillett.
Warren Nel returns to familiar territory when he travels with his new team, Nettleham, for their opening fixture at Sleaford, where he played as wicketkeeper/batsman in 2008. He is joined in the Mulsanne Park side by former Messingham bowler Ben Brumby, both of them playing under new captain David Manby.
OPENING FIXTURES
12 o’ clock start)
Market Deeping v Louth
Bracebridge Heath v Woodhall Spa
Hartsholme v Lindum
Sleaford v Nettleham
Grimsby v Bourne
Skegness v Boston
Wednesday, 21 April 2010
COULMAN'S IDEA IS MUSTARD!
By Glen Sands
Outcasts' new skipper Mark Coulman has come up with a novel idea to add a bit of interest and competitiveness to the cricket teas this season, as all first team players are to take part in a Come Dine With Me-style competition.
Throughout the season each first teamer will take it in turns to provide the home teas for one match and will be awarded points for their efforts a la TV programme.
The opposition will be asked for their marks, as will the umpires, scorers and home players - and at the end of the season the player whose teas went down best will win a meal for two at the Red Lion, Crowle, which has kindly agreed to sponsor the competition.
Mark will be first to test his culinary skills on the rest of the players and opponents who this week are Alford.
So be warned Lincs League Division One teams, you may be approached by some unscrupulous Outcasts players over the season who will be after your votes!
Outcasts' new skipper Mark Coulman has come up with a novel idea to add a bit of interest and competitiveness to the cricket teas this season, as all first team players are to take part in a Come Dine With Me-style competition.
Throughout the season each first teamer will take it in turns to provide the home teas for one match and will be awarded points for their efforts a la TV programme.
The opposition will be asked for their marks, as will the umpires, scorers and home players - and at the end of the season the player whose teas went down best will win a meal for two at the Red Lion, Crowle, which has kindly agreed to sponsor the competition.
Mark will be first to test his culinary skills on the rest of the players and opponents who this week are Alford.
So be warned Lincs League Division One teams, you may be approached by some unscrupulous Outcasts players over the season who will be after your votes!
UMPIRES' MARKS
Just to alert/remind all Lincolnshire League clubs... Should any team award a mark of five or below to a match umpire, the accompanying letter explaining why should be forwarded to the relevant umpires' association (Lincoln/Grimsby/Scunthorpe). The letter does NOT go the Lincolnshire League.
TAKING THE BISCUIT
Veteran Paul "Biscuit" Franklin appeared for Scunthorpe Town 3rds in Lincs division four on Saturday, together with son Rory, who put in a fielder of the match performance. Other family connections were Alan Pashley and youngest son Josh and brothers Jake and Luke Smith from the Heslam Park Academy.
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
FIRST FOR LINCS LEAGUE?
From Gary Smith
Daniel Dewfall, of Brigg Town, is claiming the first Karbonn Kamaal Katch in Lincolnshire County Cricket League history. During Saturday's game between Brigg and South Kelsey an opening batsman edged the ball to Brigg's young wicketkeeper Sacha Parkin. Diving to his left he managed to get half a glove on the ball but only succeeded in looping the ball above his head as he hit the ground. Daniel Dewfall - or Salad as he is known in the team - then dived from first slip to take the catch.
Upon receiving his accolades there was a definate IPL influence as the cry from the fielders was: "That's another Karbonn Kamaal Katch!"
Monday, 19 April 2010
ON ME 'ED, SON
Morton's Gordon Moden reflects on an unusual incident in Saturday's Lincs League division four home game with Market Rasen 2nds at Roses, Gainsborough.
It was Callum Douce's first game, I was in the slips and Callum was fielding at third man. Throwing the ball in he managed to injure me (as skipper) on his debut. The moral of the story obviously is never take your eye off the ball!
It was Callum Douce's first game, I was in the slips and Callum was fielding at third man. Throwing the ball in he managed to injure me (as skipper) on his debut. The moral of the story obviously is never take your eye off the ball!
SOME LADS LOOK A LITTLE RUSTY
By Glen Sands
The 2010 cricket season got underway last Saturday in glorious sunshine when Outcasts travelled to play Scothern in the Lincolnshire League Division One but as was often the case last year the same old batting failings surfaced to plague the Isle side who had bowled and fielded really well earlier in the day.
Opening bowlers Tom Sharpe and Liam McAnaney kept things tight early in nthe Scothern innings and Sharpe produced a terrific direct hit when running out opening batsman Nathan Pearse for seven with the total on eleven. He then induced the other opener Rob Speight into edging a catch to wicket keeper Graham Oxley who kept very well throughout the Scothern innings and it was soon 22 for 3 when Oxley took a second catch this time off McAnaney to send Jon Drabble back to the pavilion. Home skipper Ian Brown and number three batsman Richard Johnson then rallied to take the total to 70 but just when they appeared set to take the game away from their opponents Jason nWhiteley produced a great delivery to deceive Brown who was bowled for 26. Scothern's new signing Ian McGowan, a man in whom they have great hopes, joined Johnson and had made 14 when he was quite superbly stumped by Oxley off Whiteley and suddenly the momentum of the innings was lost. Johnson had reached 48 when he mistimed a shot off Whiteley and was caught at mid wicket by Simon Lewis and that heralded the return of the opening bowlers Sharpe and McAnaney who went on to close out the innings. Simon Lewis took a stunning catch at slip to get rid of Callum Pearse and Joe Tonge, who was outstanding in the field, took a good catch at mid on as Scothern were bowled out for 140 , Sharpe ending with 3 for 30, McAnaney 3 for 22 and Whiteley 3 for 46 for the visitors.
As with the first innings, Outcasts found runs at a premium when Jon Drabble and Ian Brown kept things very tight in the early overs. Simon Lewis was caught at slip by Johnson off Brown having made just two then Oliver Coulman was bowled by the home skipper leaving Outcasts on 15 for 2. That soon became 22 for 3 when Andy Torr was trapped LBW for three and without a run having been added David Hobson was back in the hutch although his dismissal was shrouded in controversy as he appeared to be given out caught off his boot at slip!
Craig McAnaney was out to the very next delivery when he played on to Brown who was then on a hat-trick but it didn't transpire and for a while skipper Mark Coulman and Tom Sharpe began to claw the Isle side back into the game. Coulman was easing himself into reasonable form but then played a loose shot to Richard Johnson and was comfortably caught by Callum Pearse but Sharpe continued to take the game to the home side, cracking a six and two fours before he was caught on the boundary by Nathan Pearse, having made 23. That signalled an end to any brief hopes Outcasts might have had to overhaul the Scothern target and they slumped to 73 all out as Ian McGowan (3 for 8) and Johnson (2 for 29) closed out the innings though it was skipper Ian Brown who took tha plaudits with figures of 9 overs 6 maidens 5 for 9 in a terrific spell.
So Outcasts got off to a poor start to the 2010 season and as has often been the case it was their batting that let them down. In general their bowling and fielding performance was good but a combination of rustiness and poor shot selection saw them slump to a hefty defeat but they will look to improve things on Saturday when entertaining Alford at Hirst Priory when they will hope to put things right.
The 2010 cricket season got underway last Saturday in glorious sunshine when Outcasts travelled to play Scothern in the Lincolnshire League Division One but as was often the case last year the same old batting failings surfaced to plague the Isle side who had bowled and fielded really well earlier in the day.
Opening bowlers Tom Sharpe and Liam McAnaney kept things tight early in nthe Scothern innings and Sharpe produced a terrific direct hit when running out opening batsman Nathan Pearse for seven with the total on eleven. He then induced the other opener Rob Speight into edging a catch to wicket keeper Graham Oxley who kept very well throughout the Scothern innings and it was soon 22 for 3 when Oxley took a second catch this time off McAnaney to send Jon Drabble back to the pavilion. Home skipper Ian Brown and number three batsman Richard Johnson then rallied to take the total to 70 but just when they appeared set to take the game away from their opponents Jason nWhiteley produced a great delivery to deceive Brown who was bowled for 26. Scothern's new signing Ian McGowan, a man in whom they have great hopes, joined Johnson and had made 14 when he was quite superbly stumped by Oxley off Whiteley and suddenly the momentum of the innings was lost. Johnson had reached 48 when he mistimed a shot off Whiteley and was caught at mid wicket by Simon Lewis and that heralded the return of the opening bowlers Sharpe and McAnaney who went on to close out the innings. Simon Lewis took a stunning catch at slip to get rid of Callum Pearse and Joe Tonge, who was outstanding in the field, took a good catch at mid on as Scothern were bowled out for 140 , Sharpe ending with 3 for 30, McAnaney 3 for 22 and Whiteley 3 for 46 for the visitors.
As with the first innings, Outcasts found runs at a premium when Jon Drabble and Ian Brown kept things very tight in the early overs. Simon Lewis was caught at slip by Johnson off Brown having made just two then Oliver Coulman was bowled by the home skipper leaving Outcasts on 15 for 2. That soon became 22 for 3 when Andy Torr was trapped LBW for three and without a run having been added David Hobson was back in the hutch although his dismissal was shrouded in controversy as he appeared to be given out caught off his boot at slip!
Craig McAnaney was out to the very next delivery when he played on to Brown who was then on a hat-trick but it didn't transpire and for a while skipper Mark Coulman and Tom Sharpe began to claw the Isle side back into the game. Coulman was easing himself into reasonable form but then played a loose shot to Richard Johnson and was comfortably caught by Callum Pearse but Sharpe continued to take the game to the home side, cracking a six and two fours before he was caught on the boundary by Nathan Pearse, having made 23. That signalled an end to any brief hopes Outcasts might have had to overhaul the Scothern target and they slumped to 73 all out as Ian McGowan (3 for 8) and Johnson (2 for 29) closed out the innings though it was skipper Ian Brown who took tha plaudits with figures of 9 overs 6 maidens 5 for 9 in a terrific spell.
So Outcasts got off to a poor start to the 2010 season and as has often been the case it was their batting that let them down. In general their bowling and fielding performance was good but a combination of rustiness and poor shot selection saw them slump to a hefty defeat but they will look to improve things on Saturday when entertaining Alford at Hirst Priory when they will hope to put things right.
BATSMAN IN THE RUNNING
Alkborough 2nds' opening batsman Neil Gray is running in the forthcoming London Marathon. Those willing to sponsor him should email NeilRGray@aol.com
TROUNCING BY THE TRENT
By Andy Richley, Market Rasen
2010 got off to the worst possible start for Market Rasen Town Cricket Club’s 2nd XI as they were marmalised by Morton, losing by a whopping 219 runs. With the football season still in full swing, a young and inexperienced Rasen side – with only 10 men – took to the Roses Ground on an unseasonably balmy Saturday afternoon. Morton won the toss and, having taken one look at the clear, blue skies, chose to bat. Rasen made the best possible start with Tom Corden castling Matt Gleadall in the fifth over to reduce Morton to 12 for 1. Unfortunately this was as good as it got for the visitors. Morton’s skipper, Gordon Moden, anounced his arrival with a straight-drive for four to his first ball and, from that point on, the Morton batsmen didn’t stop playing their shots.
Morton’s second-wicket put on 69 in ten overs before Morden played over a straight ball from Andy Richley to give Rasen a glimmer of hope at drinks. However, S. Turner, helped by J. Cooper, looked to extinguish this completely as the pair set about the bowling with gusto. Only George Fussey’s variations of flight and spin were able to offer Rasen’s skipper any kind of control, as the bowling was flogged to all corners by the men from Morton, with their third wicket pair putting on 91 in 17 overs. Both Turner and Cooper played positive, aggressive innings, with Turner’s straight-driving being particularly accomplished and both players keenly punishing anything not on a good line and length.
The return of Purkiss and Corden saw a brief flurry of wickets as Turner’s fine innings was cut short on 98 and Blagg and Bethell following in quick succession. However, Cooper (63*) found a willing accomplice in S. Cobb (38*), who excuted a couple of very fine late cuts. Whilst Rasen’s effort in the field was unstinting, the visitors would only attempt to limit the damage at this point, which was achieved to some extent, as Morton closed on 260 for 5 from the 45 overs.
With a big total to chase down and a long tail, Rasen’s opening pair crumbled, with both back in the hutch within the first 10 minutes of their reply. Their cheap dismissals set the tone for the rest of the lineup with Morton bundling Rasen out for, a mercifully brief, 41. Of the Rasen batsmen George Fussey and Tom Corden (14*) both showcased the fine technique that will stand them in good stead as the season progresses and Jonny Purkiss eschewed some lusty blows, but the poor start, compounded with the pressure of the scoreboard, did for the young lineup. The Morton bowlers whose averages benefited from the display were; D. Holland (3 for 13), C. Leonard (3 for 10), J. Cooper (2 for 10) and Levi Hoggard (1 for 8). Hoggard, an U14 age-group player, was playing his first Lincs League match and showed an ability to both flight and turn a ball that is rare in leg-spinners of his age and he looks set for a promising debut season in senior cricket.
What should, hopefully, be a stronger Rasen side travel to North Hykeham 2nds next week, where they’ll be looking to erase the memories of this trouncing by the Trent.
2010 got off to the worst possible start for Market Rasen Town Cricket Club’s 2nd XI as they were marmalised by Morton, losing by a whopping 219 runs. With the football season still in full swing, a young and inexperienced Rasen side – with only 10 men – took to the Roses Ground on an unseasonably balmy Saturday afternoon. Morton won the toss and, having taken one look at the clear, blue skies, chose to bat. Rasen made the best possible start with Tom Corden castling Matt Gleadall in the fifth over to reduce Morton to 12 for 1. Unfortunately this was as good as it got for the visitors. Morton’s skipper, Gordon Moden, anounced his arrival with a straight-drive for four to his first ball and, from that point on, the Morton batsmen didn’t stop playing their shots.
Morton’s second-wicket put on 69 in ten overs before Morden played over a straight ball from Andy Richley to give Rasen a glimmer of hope at drinks. However, S. Turner, helped by J. Cooper, looked to extinguish this completely as the pair set about the bowling with gusto. Only George Fussey’s variations of flight and spin were able to offer Rasen’s skipper any kind of control, as the bowling was flogged to all corners by the men from Morton, with their third wicket pair putting on 91 in 17 overs. Both Turner and Cooper played positive, aggressive innings, with Turner’s straight-driving being particularly accomplished and both players keenly punishing anything not on a good line and length.
The return of Purkiss and Corden saw a brief flurry of wickets as Turner’s fine innings was cut short on 98 and Blagg and Bethell following in quick succession. However, Cooper (63*) found a willing accomplice in S. Cobb (38*), who excuted a couple of very fine late cuts. Whilst Rasen’s effort in the field was unstinting, the visitors would only attempt to limit the damage at this point, which was achieved to some extent, as Morton closed on 260 for 5 from the 45 overs.
With a big total to chase down and a long tail, Rasen’s opening pair crumbled, with both back in the hutch within the first 10 minutes of their reply. Their cheap dismissals set the tone for the rest of the lineup with Morton bundling Rasen out for, a mercifully brief, 41. Of the Rasen batsmen George Fussey and Tom Corden (14*) both showcased the fine technique that will stand them in good stead as the season progresses and Jonny Purkiss eschewed some lusty blows, but the poor start, compounded with the pressure of the scoreboard, did for the young lineup. The Morton bowlers whose averages benefited from the display were; D. Holland (3 for 13), C. Leonard (3 for 10), J. Cooper (2 for 10) and Levi Hoggard (1 for 8). Hoggard, an U14 age-group player, was playing his first Lincs League match and showed an ability to both flight and turn a ball that is rare in leg-spinners of his age and he looks set for a promising debut season in senior cricket.
What should, hopefully, be a stronger Rasen side travel to North Hykeham 2nds next week, where they’ll be looking to erase the memories of this trouncing by the Trent.
Saturday, 17 April 2010
JUST LET THE DUST SETTLE
From Del Crabb, Scunthorpe Town CC
Although this has obviously serious consequences to our team strengths this weekend, I thought you may find it amusing, and worthy of putting on your website. Neil Patrick, Pop Robson (both pictured here), Andy Fidell and Ben Ibrahim are currently stranded in New York as a consequence of the current volcanic ash cloud problems. They went on a pre-season trip and were due back in the country yesterday in time for today’s Lincs League matches. Ian Snowden is also stranded on a family holiday to Spain!
HERE WE GO, HERE WE GO...
Another Lincolnshire County Cricket League season gets under way this afternoon with a pretty full fixture list and bright, sunny weather. What more can you ask for in mid-April?
I'm off to West Halton Lane to umpire Alkborough 2nds v Messingham 2nds (division two), and I'm told by Alkborough legend "Chippy" Clay that Phyllis is on tea duty. Hope her famous trifle is on the day one menu!
Copies of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League handbook were given to all clubs at Wednesday's pre-season meeting, but (due to expense) only a limited number get circulated. So many Lincs League regulars will never get to see a copy.
Therefore, Lincs Cricket Latest thought we'd recount some of Chairman Bob Welton's thoughts in his traditional annual message to clubs.
Bob (pictured) wishes Hartsholme every success after gaining elevation to the Lincs ECB Premier and "welcomes back into our fold" Messingham and Caistor (coming down). "Both clubs will be striving to make a swift return to the ECB League and I wish them well in their efforts," Bob says.
He adds: "Our league is almost 50 years old and has come a long way since its formation. Many new clubs have joined us but unfortunately some have left."
Bob realises some clubs will find it hard going to balance the books this year.
"This season sees us in the middle of a national credit crunch" he says, "and it will no doubt mean a lot of hard work by individuals within clubs to keep their heads above water. I applaud these 'unsung volunteers' for their work, together with groundsmen, tea ladies and scorers. Without their hard work more clubs would cease to exist."
He concludes: "Good luck to all in 2010; let's hope the sun shines continuously and we all have a great season."
Thursday, 15 April 2010
EPWORTH BACK ON HOME TURF
Scunthorpe and District Umpires' Association's pre-season meeting was held tonight at Brumby Hall cricket pavilion, with App-Frod CC players busy outside in the nets.
Fixture secretary Mick Walker told members that Epworth CC - rejoining the North Lindsey League - would be playing home games in Epworth and not in Belton, as originally suggested. However, no-one seemed sure of the exact venue in Epworth.
At the end of the winter training course, Brett Smith successfully passed the necessary exam to become a qualified umpire, although it's clear he intends to play when selected during the season.
With only one newcomer and several stalwarts retiring during the winter, the need to recruit and train more umpires for 2011 was highlighted. Barrie Cook suggested the matter needed publicising at the earlier possible opportunity.
Anyone reading this who is interested, or knows someone else who might be, is urged to email general secretary Jo Walker - jo.33@tiscali.co.uk
Copies of the Lincolnshire League's 2010 Handbook were distributed to all umpires present; those for the North Lindsey League will be handed out as soon as they are received by the association.
Fixture secretary Mick Walker told members that Epworth CC - rejoining the North Lindsey League - would be playing home games in Epworth and not in Belton, as originally suggested. However, no-one seemed sure of the exact venue in Epworth.
At the end of the winter training course, Brett Smith successfully passed the necessary exam to become a qualified umpire, although it's clear he intends to play when selected during the season.
With only one newcomer and several stalwarts retiring during the winter, the need to recruit and train more umpires for 2011 was highlighted. Barrie Cook suggested the matter needed publicising at the earlier possible opportunity.
Anyone reading this who is interested, or knows someone else who might be, is urged to email general secretary Jo Walker - jo.33@tiscali.co.uk
Copies of the Lincolnshire League's 2010 Handbook were distributed to all umpires present; those for the North Lindsey League will be handed out as soon as they are received by the association.
CUP MARKINGS ADDED
At last night's Lincolnshire County Cricket League pre-season meeting in Market Rasen it was agreed clubs should mark umpires in all George Marshall Trophy and Bob Welton Cup ties, with effect from first round games in mid-May. This is in line with the introduction of marking of officials in all matches in divisions one, two, three and four for the first time, starting this Saturday (the premier division having had this for some time). The marking system will greatly assist umpires' officials and the ECB Officials' Association in targeting umpires for advancement.
A working party was set up to look into the possible introduction of an online results and player registration system through the Play Cricket website. This will involve representatives of Haxey and Cleethorpes, plus league officials. A meeting will be held in about a month's time to prepare a written report for consideration by clubs at the mid-July meeting. It is then anticipated a vote/rule change will follow on the suggestion at the AGM in March.
Copies of the new 2010 Lincs League Handbook and match balls were distributed at the end of what was a very short meeting. This was due, in part, to the Lincolnshire Cricket Board being unable to send a representative along to elaborate on the idea of a Cricket Board Academy team applying for membership of the Lincs League premier division. Hopefully the Board will be able to attend a future meeting. It they do decide to apply, this must be done by the end of July (the deadline for all clubs wishing to add new teams for 2011) and put their application to a vote at the AGM.
A working party was set up to look into the possible introduction of an online results and player registration system through the Play Cricket website. This will involve representatives of Haxey and Cleethorpes, plus league officials. A meeting will be held in about a month's time to prepare a written report for consideration by clubs at the mid-July meeting. It is then anticipated a vote/rule change will follow on the suggestion at the AGM in March.
Copies of the new 2010 Lincs League Handbook and match balls were distributed at the end of what was a very short meeting. This was due, in part, to the Lincolnshire Cricket Board being unable to send a representative along to elaborate on the idea of a Cricket Board Academy team applying for membership of the Lincs League premier division. Hopefully the Board will be able to attend a future meeting. It they do decide to apply, this must be done by the end of July (the deadline for all clubs wishing to add new teams for 2011) and put their application to a vote at the AGM.
Tuesday, 13 April 2010
WHO'S THE DADDY NOW?
Congratulations to Brigg Town Cricket Club skipper Lee Fielden, who has become a father for the first time, and to his better half, Fiona, who gave birth to Oliver at 1.37.
Proud dad Lee points out that 137 is also his career best score (v Caistor, Lincs League).
That means he is almost certain to be absent on paternity leave tomorrow (Wed) night as Brigg Town's rep at the pre-season meeting of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League, to be held at Market Rasen's Rase Park HQ (7.30pm). This is an important meeting for all clubs, with copies of the newly-printed 2010 Handbook being distributed.
Please ensure your club is represented!
Proud dad Lee points out that 137 is also his career best score (v Caistor, Lincs League).
That means he is almost certain to be absent on paternity leave tomorrow (Wed) night as Brigg Town's rep at the pre-season meeting of the Lincolnshire County Cricket League, to be held at Market Rasen's Rase Park HQ (7.30pm). This is an important meeting for all clubs, with copies of the newly-printed 2010 Handbook being distributed.
Please ensure your club is represented!
Sunday, 11 April 2010
COUNTY GAMES
Perhaps you will be able to get along to support Lincolnshire's Minor Counties team at some point this summer. Here are the home fixtures:
MCCA Trophy: May 9 v Suffolk,Woodhall Spa; May 31 v Cambridgeshire, Bracebridge Heath.
MCCA Championship: June 6-8v Suffolk, Sleaford;
July 4-6 v Cumberland, Cleethorpes; August 15-17 v Bedfordshire, Grantham.
MCCA Trophy: May 9 v Suffolk,Woodhall Spa; May 31 v Cambridgeshire, Bracebridge Heath.
MCCA Championship: June 6-8v Suffolk, Sleaford;
July 4-6 v Cumberland, Cleethorpes; August 15-17 v Bedfordshire, Grantham.
WELL SAID, GED
A copy of the Readers Lincolnshire Cricket Board ECB Premier League 2010 Handbook has kindly been sent to Lincs Cricket Latest. It's an interesting publication and we note that the opening round of fixtures on April 24 sees newly-promoted Hartsholme hosting Lindum, in a Lincoln derby (noon start). Other openers are Market Deeping v Louth, Bracebridge Heath (reigning champs) v Woodhall Spa, Sleaford v Nettleham, Grimsby v Bourne and Skegness (runners-up in 2009) v Boston (promoted from the South Lincs and Border League). Messingham and Caistor have 'gone down' to the Lincs League premier division for 2010.In his message to clubs, ECB League chairman Ged McDougall says: "My hope for the 2010 season is that we don't have a repeat of the disciplinary issues that occurred in 2009 and I would ask all clubs to communicate the ECB Code of Conduct and Spirit of Cricket to their players. I would ask that clubs make sure that their club rules or constitution incorporates a workable disciplinary policy."
Well said, Ged!
Wednesday, 7 April 2010
COMING ALONG VERY NICELY
The new clubhouse at Marshalls, in Gainsborough, will hopefully be up and running by June 1 - and it's going to be impressive. North Lindsey League teams will be accommodated on Sundays "as best possible" until the new facility is complete, but we understand there’s no more than two games planned before then.Thanks to our old friend Jimmy Snee for the update and picture.
Monday, 5 April 2010
DISTRICT FESTIVAL
The Lincolnshire County Cricket Board District Festival (U12 and U14) will be held at Boston CC from Monday, May 31 to Friday, June 4.
U12 games will be approximately 25 overs, and U14 will be 40 overs.
Players of the tournament will be decided in both age groups, and recognition will be given to 'five for' hauls and centuries.
U12 games will be approximately 25 overs, and U14 will be 40 overs.
Players of the tournament will be decided in both age groups, and recognition will be given to 'five for' hauls and centuries.
Saturday, 3 April 2010
COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS
Just catching up on a bit of cricket admin, notably updating the database of registered players in the Lincolnshire County Cricket League. Many thanks to all clubs who have kindly sent new registration forms and emailed me with updated lists of their players (removing those who've retired or moved on).
I've also started work on my first Lincs League preview article of 2010, to appear in the Grimsby Telegraph, Scunthorpe Telegraph and Lincolnshire Echo ahead of the first round of games on Saturday, April 17. There are many interesting games in prospect - weather permitting.
Not long to go now!
I've also started work on my first Lincs League preview article of 2010, to appear in the Grimsby Telegraph, Scunthorpe Telegraph and Lincolnshire Echo ahead of the first round of games on Saturday, April 17. There are many interesting games in prospect - weather permitting.
Not long to go now!
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