Unlike 2020, when the Covid pandemic played havoc with the season, cricket in 2021 has fared better, although some restrictions still had to apply.
As a consequence, a full programme of cricket has been possible and by the time you read this article, the season will be over.
The introduction of a Second Division in the Nottinghamshire Premier League means that, not only with the winners of the top sides in the Bassetlaw and South Notts Cricket Leagues be promoted to Premier Division 1 but the following 4, or possibly 5 sides from both, will form the bulk of Premier Division 2. There will therefore be a knock on effect in all subsequent Divisions, with the same number of sides from each moving up a Division.
In short, no sides will be relegated this year from the SNCL. As things stand at the time of writing, our 1st XI has an outside chance of moving into Premier Division 2 but must do well against strong opponents in their last two games, whilst our 2nd XI has a strong expectation to move from Division H into Division G.
Friendly, Sunday games have continued, as previously, with the emphasis very much on fun and the development of our younger players.
Whichever of the sides, everyone has contributed well and virtually every game has been competitive, whatever the result. Nevertheless, it would be remiss of me not to mention a few individuals.
Ryan Evans and Yohance McKenzie have scored heavily with the bat whilst Junior Gangotra has proved to be an excellent all rounder and Brinsley Kirkham the leading wicket taker.
Dave Jephson has lead the 2nd team admirably, ably supported by Scott Andrew, our Chairman, whilst many of our our juniors have starred. Particular mention though to Cameron Andrew and Sam Lincoln who have both contributed significantly when asked to make the step up to first team cricket.
Junior cricket has, again, been an outstanding success. The results of matches played have been mixed but everyone has given of their best. Most pleasing though and the outstanding success has to be our Friday Club Night with upwards of 80 plus children of all ages and both boys and girls enjoying everything cricket has to offer.
Long may that continue.
Finally, off the field, the finishing touches are being applied to our newly extended pavilion and hopefully it won’t be too long before its official opening can be announced. Watch this space!
The exciting news currently though is the proposed improvement to the outfield playing surface, once the season is over.
Whilst the slope on the ground will remain, the outfield has extensive moss growth in it and the unevenness of the groud makes fielding difficult in places. A proposal is in place, therefore which, if it goes ahead at the end of the current season, will see the surface stripped, leveled and reseeded in time for the start of the 2022 season.
Our excellent square, recognised as one of the very best in the County and painstakingly nurtured by John Nester and others will be unaffected by the proposal.
Exciting times, in spite of Covid!
Stay safe, – Terry Lee, Club Secretary