08/09/2025
So the 2025 cricket season came to an end this weekend. A season which saw significant changes on and off the field. The year started with much thought and discussion as to whether, for the first time in the clubs history, we would be able to field a second weekend team. Whilst other Clubs took a different approach by playing pretty much the same team Saturdays, Sundays and midweek we felt the most sustainable way forward was to aim to provide cricket for more players both young and not so young in the area. What followed was beyond the expectations of even the most optimistic of us. Under the stewardship of the returning Rob Dawson after a decade of absence, a merry band was gathered of enthusiastic youngsters, non-cricketers and people picking up a bat and ball for the first time since school. Whilst only winning 2 of their 10 matches they became a tight knit group who went from virtual strangers at the first game to a band of brothers & sisters by the last. Even the oldest of the group improved by the end of the season and, in terms of more club members, more use of the ground and building friendships, the season was an unmitigated success and they should all be proud of their efforts and will no doubt improve from their first season. Much like the Sunday team, the 2024 title-winning midweek team morphed throughout the season. Long time leaders Pete Armstrong and Mark Vasey were largely able to step away from playing and the young team was captained instead by Xander Vasey who led from the rear most of the season coming in at number 11 to allow a plethora of youngsters to get their first taste of senior cricket. Although the more cynical would suggest finishing with an average of 253 after 8 'not outs' in 9 innings was tactical captaincy!! 😂. By the end of the season the team was almost a 'Dads and Lads' team with a number of youngsters dragging their Dads into whites for a game. Despite the change in personnel a creditable 3rd place finish was well deserved.
Onto the Saturday team who also secured a 3rd place finish behind strong Edenhall and Stainton teams. Chris Tuer continues to lead the team in his own selfless way and the usual stalwarts of the Vaseys, Thomlinson, Armstrong et al continue to contribute significantly on and off the field. Whilst 2 newcomers stood out too. Daz Richardson having the most wicketkeeping victims in the league and Aamir Khan came in mid- season and provided a flurry of runs and wickets as well as some "interesting" running between the wickets to set many games alight.
We also can't forget the "Spartans" taking home the Temple Sowerby T10 trophy in near darkness too.
Overall, a successful season. Having always battled by with a small squad, this season has seen over 50 players represent the club, many of them new to the club whilst still retaining the family feel we have always had, socially we remain outstanding as do our well renowned teas!! More plans over the close season are brewing to improve facilities and opportunities. Speaking of socials and brewing it might be worth keeping an eye out for other plans in the New Year.....🍻
Finally, none of this would be possible without a number of people. Players, tea ladies and groundsman Nev Jackson. Thank You. Further to this our magnificent sponsors, without whom our small club couldn't function. Particularly our main sponsor R&S Nelles who continue to be a massive support, but also the numerous others who sponsor balls and matches through the season. You will have seen them on the 'A' Board in the square each weekend and whilst there are too many to mention individually here we are constantly grateful for your support.
If you fancy getting involved in whatever way you will always be made welcome. Only 5 months until winter nets begin, see you there.....🏏
