I’m itching for the season to begin as the 2nd XI embark on the next stage of our development journey following our successes of last year. Celebrating on the field with the group following our title clinching win was one of my favourite TCC moments.
I am under no illusion that the D Division will pose a sterner test as we face off against sides our 1st XI have played in recent memory. In order to compete in a league with six 1st XI sides, we need the good availability of last season to continue into this term. The fantastic attitude of 1st XI regulars who dropped down to the 2s last year was a breath of fresh air and I look forward to this continuing.
My life was made considerably easier last season by the efforts of Alan & Rich as umpires and Bob as scorer. Thanks guys.
The on-field growth of the club in the last 5 years has been fantastic and we must now work on sustaining the levels of cricket at which we play. Our junior set up has been short of an ideal number volunteers for a few years and it would be great to see some new faces getting involved; it’s a rewarding & enjoyable experience. If the club is to maintain our current standing, a steady flow of youth is an absolute necessity & that cannot happen without adequate volunteers.
I look forward to seeing how our younger players continue to develop, in particular Erin Vukusic who has been selected for the Western Storm EPP, national U18 champion Imogen Daldorph following a great 2022 season with the ball & Henry Squire who has recently returned from the Devon U15s South Africa tour. I’m also eager to see how many of our U15 plate winning side can force their way into the 2s over the summer.
James Meredith & Keith Cudby have done a great job of compiling a healthy looking Sunday friendly fixture list. I would implore any young cricketers to make use of the opportunity to play in these matches, especially as we plan to reintroduce a 3rd XI over the next couple of seasons.
There was a fantastic atmosphere around the 2nd XI & the whole club last year. Let’s ensure the club continues to be such a great place to spend time.
On a final sadder note, I will miss being out in the field and spotting Denise Lesniak ambling down the lane wearing a smile on her way to the ground. Denny was an attendee of both 1st & 2nd XI fixtures in equal measure and she will be sorely missed by all of us. RIP Denise.
All the best to everyone for the season. Make happy memories. Go well.
Jack Stirling
Thorverton Cricket Club 