By Terry Lee (club secretary)
Season 2018 has been one of mixed fortunes for the Calverton Cricket Club.
At senior level, the 1st XI was, unfortunately, relegated back down to Division B of the Gunn and Moore South Notts Village League after only one season in the top flight.
As I reported at the halfway stage in the season, the team struggled to find any consistency with either bat or ball.
Unavailability, lack of commitment, call it what you will, was also a major factor, as was the fact that most if not all other sides had one or more stellar signings.
However, there were some positives to be taken from the season. James Cleggett, an 18-year-old from Australia came for an adventure and to sample English cricket and performed admirably, as did Yohance McKenzie, a talented 17-year-old with both bat and ball.
As for the 2nd XI, it fared much better, missing out on promotion by a whisker. An influx of new players and emerging young talent meant that there were some solid performances, with the reversal at Oxton perhaps a pivotal moment.
Individually too the team did well, with Gavin Bagguley winning the Division batting award. Well done Gavin.
Sunday cricket was, without doubt, the overriding success at senior level.
With results taking on less significance following our resignation from Sunday League cricket, we were able to turn out sides of mixed ages and abilities against opposition of similar make up and standard.
This resulted in some very enjoyable Sundays and allowed for the development of several youngsters like Ethan Wright, Charlie Bateman and Cameron Scott to name but three.
It goes without saying that this formula will be repeated next year.
It has been a fantastic year for the junior section of Calverton CC. This year we ran softball Kwik cricket teams and hardball teams at U10, U11 and U13s.
There were over 90 boys and girls under the age of 13 playing cricket and making the most of the wonderful summer and our splendid facilities.
As well as the Friday night training sessions, we also introduced the ECB’s All-Stars on Sunday mornings for four and five year olds, which were great fun and a superb introduction for all involved.
Although huge improvements have been seen across all age groups, in terms of achievements, our under 11s rounded off a great season by winning the league and cup double, with some fantastic team and individual performances throughout the season.
Huge congratulations to all involved and also special congratulations to Leo Williamson who has been selected for the 2019 Notts U10 squad.
Here’s hoping summer 2019 can be as successful, enjoyable and dry as this year.
Junior hardball winter coaching will start on Sunday 6th January from 12noon until 2pm at Carlton Le Willows School.
All enquiries please email calvertoncccoach@outlook.com.
Senior nets also commence at the start of the new year. Details and dates for these will be posted on the club website at calvertoncc.co.uk.
Merry Christmas!