posted by John Winn
Three rare events happened in Darlington yesterday. Firstly, and at the 21st attempt, the town's football team won a match. Secondly and almost as remarkably, the sun shone and thirdly, and now we enter the realms of fantasy, not only was cricket played but I was there.
When the football finished shortly before three I made the ten minute drive to the small village of Great Burdon (there is a Little Burdon, so little it can't even claim the title of hamlet) where Haughton CC have played on the same field since the late nineteenth century and where despite the week's deluges the second eleven were involved in a Darlington and District Division B match against opponents Rockcliffe Park II who were batting and had slipped from 36 for 1 to 47 for 7 which while I was there became 49 for 9 and subsequently 64 all out.* The sun was shining but a chill wind blew down the Sedgefield Road and after a circuit of the ground I moved on. Although the wicket was soft and slow and the outfield similar the ground was perfectly fit for play and a credit to the enthusiasm of the home club. Somebody must have worked very hard to get the game on , one of only three games in the top two divisions to survive.
From Great Burdon I drove into Darlington to the Feethams Ground where Darlington II were playing Marske II. The scoreboard read 26 for 3 off 18 overs which led me to two assumptions; one that there had been a late start and two, batting was not easy. Further investigation revealed that the game had started on time and that this was actually the second innings with Marske having been bowled out for 35, with extras top scoring with 8.Shaughn (sic) Russell having taken 5 for 9. Before I had finished my cup of tea the Darlington batsmen had completed the job without hitting a boundary and won by six wickets. I drove home passing a vacant cricket field at Great Ouseburn and seeing bunting flying in the village was reminded that today is the day of the village spring fair. I assume that most of you reading this posting will be aware that they could have hardly picked a worse day, and there have been some strong contenders in the last month. The forecast for the week ahead is a shade better, but if the glass is half full then it is rain water not champagne.
* the home team won by six wickets.
Sunday 29 April 2012
MAY FIXTURES
By Brian Sanderson,
Some fixtures I have in my diary for May.
1 st Yorkshire Seconds v Lancashire Seconds Headingley 12.00
Leeds @ Bradford v Sussex Weetwood. 3 days
2rn Yorkshire v Leicestershire Scarborough. 4days
Lancashire v Nottingham Old Trafford 4 days
Lancashire Seconds v Yorkshire St Annes 3 days.
6th Cheshire v Cumberland Christleton
8th Derby Seconds v Durham Belpher Meadows
9th Durham v Somerset Chester-le Street 4 days
Nottingham v Middlesex Trent Bridge 4 days.
14th Lancasire Seconds v Unicorns A. Old Trafford.
15 th Lancashire Seconds v Leicestershire Crosby
16th Yorkshire v Hampshire Headingley 4 Days.
York @District v R.AF under 25 Sheriff Hutton
M.C.C V Barnard Castle
M.C.C V Myerscough College Garstang.
20 th Cheshire v Herfordshire Bramhall
Lincolnshire v Shropshire Bracebridge Heath.
Yorkshire v Derby Headingley
21st Cumberland v Cambridgshire Workington
Yorkshire Seconds v Durham Maske
22rn Yorkshire Seconds v Durham York 3days.
27 th Unicorn v Yorkshire Scarborough
28th Lancashire Seconds v Warwick Old Trafford
29th Yorkshire Seconds v England under 19 Bingley 2x 20,s
Derbyshire Seconds v Durham Repton School
30th Yorkshire v Northants Headingley 4 days
Leeds @ Bradford v Solent Weetwood
31st Yorkshire Seconds v Derbyshire Bingley 2x 20
All we need is some sunshine.There are many other league matches.
Some fixtures I have in my diary for May.
1 st Yorkshire Seconds v Lancashire Seconds Headingley 12.00
Leeds @ Bradford v Sussex Weetwood. 3 days
2rn Yorkshire v Leicestershire Scarborough. 4days
Lancashire v Nottingham Old Trafford 4 days
Lancashire Seconds v Yorkshire St Annes 3 days.
6th Cheshire v Cumberland Christleton
8th Derby Seconds v Durham Belpher Meadows
9th Durham v Somerset Chester-le Street 4 days
Nottingham v Middlesex Trent Bridge 4 days.
14th Lancasire Seconds v Unicorns A. Old Trafford.
15 th Lancashire Seconds v Leicestershire Crosby
16th Yorkshire v Hampshire Headingley 4 Days.
York @District v R.AF under 25 Sheriff Hutton
M.C.C V Barnard Castle
M.C.C V Myerscough College Garstang.
20 th Cheshire v Herfordshire Bramhall
Lincolnshire v Shropshire Bracebridge Heath.
Yorkshire v Derby Headingley
21st Cumberland v Cambridgshire Workington
Yorkshire Seconds v Durham Maske
22rn Yorkshire Seconds v Durham York 3days.
27 th Unicorn v Yorkshire Scarborough
28th Lancashire Seconds v Warwick Old Trafford
29th Yorkshire Seconds v England under 19 Bingley 2x 20,s
Derbyshire Seconds v Durham Repton School
30th Yorkshire v Northants Headingley 4 days
Leeds @ Bradford v Solent Weetwood
31st Yorkshire Seconds v Derbyshire Bingley 2x 20
All we need is some sunshine.There are many other league matches.
Thursday 26 April 2012
NYSD memories
posted by John Winn
When my father retired from playing cricket in the (and his) early fifties we would occasionally spend Saturday afternoons watching NYSD cricket at Feethams, the home of both Darlington cricket and football clubs at that time. Darlington CC still play there and are the trustees of the land on which the stands and pitch of DFC used to stand. It will be nine years next week since The Quakers played the last league game there and the ground today shows what nature can do in a relatively short time if left alone. A sad sight, especially given the dire situation the club finds itself in, saddled with a stadium that typically is filled to little more than 5% of its capacity.
Darlington were arguably the strongest team in the NYSD league in the fifties, for in the ten years beginning in 1950 they were champions three times, runners up twice and their lowest placing was fourth..For much of this time their professional was Paul Carey, who had played for his native Sussex and he represented Durham on a number of occasions.During his seven year professional career at Feethams he took 371 wickets at an average of 12.56. Another prominent player during this era was opening batsman John Camburn, . He was a Maths and PE teacher at Darlington Grammar School and it was a thrill for those of us involved in cricket at the school to have such a player as the master i/c of the sport.
Promotion and relegation came late to the NYSD, for more than 100 years elapsed from the founding of the league in 1892 until in 1997 automatic movement of one club in each direction between divisions was introduced and this was extended to two up, two down in 2011. The effect of these changes has seen an influx of new clubs into the top division (from 2012 an ECB Premier league), clubs like Marton, Stokesley, Richmond and Great Ayton. Long established members like Bishop Auckland, Darlington RA and Redcar have,for the time being at least slipped into the second tier.Not surprisingly virtually all last week's games in the league were washed out and a repetiton seems likely this Saturday. Last years champions Marton are expected to do well again with ex-Yorkshire player Lee Hodgson in their squad.
Whist we are in that part of the world it seems appropriate to mention a son of Great Ayton, Harry Pearson. Pearson is most likely to be known to readers for his book 'Slipless in Settle' which won the 2011 Cricket Society and MCC book of the year. Pearson has contributed the review of books for this year's Wisden and tucked away on page 146 are his comments on two books 'Say Cheese' and 'Cuckoos and Moonrakers' by our very own Peter Davies. Pearson describes the Cricket Heritage Project as 'an altogether excellent endeavour with a splendid website'. Mentioned in Wisden, blimey!
When my father retired from playing cricket in the (and his) early fifties we would occasionally spend Saturday afternoons watching NYSD cricket at Feethams, the home of both Darlington cricket and football clubs at that time. Darlington CC still play there and are the trustees of the land on which the stands and pitch of DFC used to stand. It will be nine years next week since The Quakers played the last league game there and the ground today shows what nature can do in a relatively short time if left alone. A sad sight, especially given the dire situation the club finds itself in, saddled with a stadium that typically is filled to little more than 5% of its capacity.
Darlington were arguably the strongest team in the NYSD league in the fifties, for in the ten years beginning in 1950 they were champions three times, runners up twice and their lowest placing was fourth..For much of this time their professional was Paul Carey, who had played for his native Sussex and he represented Durham on a number of occasions.During his seven year professional career at Feethams he took 371 wickets at an average of 12.56. Another prominent player during this era was opening batsman John Camburn, . He was a Maths and PE teacher at Darlington Grammar School and it was a thrill for those of us involved in cricket at the school to have such a player as the master i/c of the sport.
Promotion and relegation came late to the NYSD, for more than 100 years elapsed from the founding of the league in 1892 until in 1997 automatic movement of one club in each direction between divisions was introduced and this was extended to two up, two down in 2011. The effect of these changes has seen an influx of new clubs into the top division (from 2012 an ECB Premier league), clubs like Marton, Stokesley, Richmond and Great Ayton. Long established members like Bishop Auckland, Darlington RA and Redcar have,for the time being at least slipped into the second tier.Not surprisingly virtually all last week's games in the league were washed out and a repetiton seems likely this Saturday. Last years champions Marton are expected to do well again with ex-Yorkshire player Lee Hodgson in their squad.
Whist we are in that part of the world it seems appropriate to mention a son of Great Ayton, Harry Pearson. Pearson is most likely to be known to readers for his book 'Slipless in Settle' which won the 2011 Cricket Society and MCC book of the year. Pearson has contributed the review of books for this year's Wisden and tucked away on page 146 are his comments on two books 'Say Cheese' and 'Cuckoos and Moonrakers' by our very own Peter Davies. Pearson describes the Cricket Heritage Project as 'an altogether excellent endeavour with a splendid website'. Mentioned in Wisden, blimey!
Wednesday 25 April 2012
Tuesday 24 April
Posted by Peter Davies
Harrogate
Another blank day!
I'm getting well into 2nd XI cricket so I took a trip to Harrogate for Yorkshire's home fixture.
Got there mid-afternoon but even though the sun was shining the game had been called off hours previously.
All very disappointing.
So I had a wander, took some photos, and also had a soft drink in the one-year-old new pavilion.
Got chatting there with the barman who filled me in on HCC and the ground in general.
A pleasant ground which I last visited in 1983 for a Yorkshire first team match. I remember collecting autographs (we loved that as our hobby), misplacing my books, and relying on HCC to send them all in the post to me. Very good of them indeed - and they'd got some extra autographs in the books too.
Beyond the call of duty.
Posted by Peter Davies
Harrogate
Another blank day!
I'm getting well into 2nd XI cricket so I took a trip to Harrogate for Yorkshire's home fixture.
Got there mid-afternoon but even though the sun was shining the game had been called off hours previously.
All very disappointing.
So I had a wander, took some photos, and also had a soft drink in the one-year-old new pavilion.
Got chatting there with the barman who filled me in on HCC and the ground in general.
A pleasant ground which I last visited in 1983 for a Yorkshire first team match. I remember collecting autographs (we loved that as our hobby), misplacing my books, and relying on HCC to send them all in the post to me. Very good of them indeed - and they'd got some extra autographs in the books too.
Beyond the call of duty.
Tuesday 24 April 2012
Double disappointment
posted by John Winn
As I type this the sun is shining and the outside temperature feels warmer than it has since March which makes today's events even more disappointing. As I arrived at Harrogate at 10:50 the groundsman was working on the square but a number of spectators were already heading for the exits. Sadly Harrogate had lived up to its reputation for slow drying and the run ups and outfield were such that play had been abandoned for the day. I have just taken a further look at tomorrow's forecast and it is such that one begins to think that all four days of the 'festival' might be lost. Living where I do Harrogate and York and equidistant and the opportunity to see a Yorkshire team so close to home had been eagerly awaited.
I decided that it was worth driving to Weetwood, where Leeds/Bradford were due to pl;ay in Cardiff in a two day university match. Alas a similar picture awaited me and after a lengthy inspection which at one point involved as many as seven people: umpires, coaches, groundstaff and captains, the day's play was called off just after 1:30. Run ups appeared to be the problem again. At least my visit provided a chance to catch up with Tony Hutton, Brian Senior and a few other pcws. Most of the conversation was about games we had missed due to rain.
The York Senior League celebrates its centenary this year. Founded as the Thirsk and District Senior Cricket League in 1912, it assumed its current title in 1932 and today comprises 53 clubs who put out 92 teams in 7 divisions. It is fitting thaat in this special season it should welcome a new club: the East Yorkshire outfit Patrington who have carried all before them in the East Yorkshire Cricket Alliance in the last two seasons and who will start in Div 5 of The York League. The league has always been noted for its excellent handbook and for its centenary it has produced a special edition which,even at a cost of £10, I would strongly recommend. As well as its usual detailed statistics it contains a history of all clubs who have held membership. Past members include Ainsty Estates, York Ramblers, York RI and York Sugar Factory.Yorkshire members may have noticed a display in the long room at Headingley which includes some archive material from the league's history and a map showing the distribution of past and present clubs. Well worth a look.
As I type this the sun is shining and the outside temperature feels warmer than it has since March which makes today's events even more disappointing. As I arrived at Harrogate at 10:50 the groundsman was working on the square but a number of spectators were already heading for the exits. Sadly Harrogate had lived up to its reputation for slow drying and the run ups and outfield were such that play had been abandoned for the day. I have just taken a further look at tomorrow's forecast and it is such that one begins to think that all four days of the 'festival' might be lost. Living where I do Harrogate and York and equidistant and the opportunity to see a Yorkshire team so close to home had been eagerly awaited.
I decided that it was worth driving to Weetwood, where Leeds/Bradford were due to pl;ay in Cardiff in a two day university match. Alas a similar picture awaited me and after a lengthy inspection which at one point involved as many as seven people: umpires, coaches, groundstaff and captains, the day's play was called off just after 1:30. Run ups appeared to be the problem again. At least my visit provided a chance to catch up with Tony Hutton, Brian Senior and a few other pcws. Most of the conversation was about games we had missed due to rain.
The York Senior League celebrates its centenary this year. Founded as the Thirsk and District Senior Cricket League in 1912, it assumed its current title in 1932 and today comprises 53 clubs who put out 92 teams in 7 divisions. It is fitting thaat in this special season it should welcome a new club: the East Yorkshire outfit Patrington who have carried all before them in the East Yorkshire Cricket Alliance in the last two seasons and who will start in Div 5 of The York League. The league has always been noted for its excellent handbook and for its centenary it has produced a special edition which,even at a cost of £10, I would strongly recommend. As well as its usual detailed statistics it contains a history of all clubs who have held membership. Past members include Ainsty Estates, York Ramblers, York RI and York Sugar Factory.Yorkshire members may have noticed a display in the long room at Headingley which includes some archive material from the league's history and a map showing the distribution of past and present clubs. Well worth a look.
Sunday 22 April
Woodlands
Posted by Peter Davies
Another Bradford afternoon
I had planned a few games in the Bradford area but the weather was poor. In the end we went to Woodlands only - and that game had been called off on the Thursday!
So we had a drink in the bar and got chatting with two very friendly club officials (my friend Stuart Tordoff wasn't there unfortunately).
A very impressive club - great PR and some very nice facilities, including a sports hall which was now the main income-earner for the club.
We also chatted about Richard Pyrah, who had played some of his best cricket at Woodlands but who was, fundamentally, an Ossett boy at heart.
PR is important in all walks of life and I was mightily impressed by Woodlands'. Really made me want to visit when cricket was on. Well done OCC.
Also took some photos and had a wander round. Really likeable club.
Woodlands
Posted by Peter Davies
Another Bradford afternoon
I had planned a few games in the Bradford area but the weather was poor. In the end we went to Woodlands only - and that game had been called off on the Thursday!
So we had a drink in the bar and got chatting with two very friendly club officials (my friend Stuart Tordoff wasn't there unfortunately).
A very impressive club - great PR and some very nice facilities, including a sports hall which was now the main income-earner for the club.
We also chatted about Richard Pyrah, who had played some of his best cricket at Woodlands but who was, fundamentally, an Ossett boy at heart.
PR is important in all walks of life and I was mightily impressed by Woodlands'. Really made me want to visit when cricket was on. Well done OCC.
Also took some photos and had a wander round. Really likeable club.
Monday 23 April 2012
Wrong call?
posted by John Winn
This morning's Yorkshire Post reveals the impact of the rain on Saturday's league cricket: a mixture of postponements, cancellations, abandonments and perhaps more games actually completed than might have been expected. It is with some disappointment that I discovered that play had been possible in three out of the four Wetherby League games I had tagged weeks ago for my Saturday entertainment and that my decision to play safe and go to Headingley was probably the wrong call.
My prediction that Yorkshire might be batting by lunch on Saturday also proved wrong, but not through a failure to break the overnight stand but because of good, dogged support for Bopara by the Essex tail and a well deserved century for Bopara himself who I feel has been rather shabbily treated by the England selectors. Take him and Masters away from the Essex side and they don't look much above ordinary.
Brian has described yesterday's events at Headingley and the counties who beat the rain and secured victories yesterday, Warwickshire and Hampshire, will count those extra points as very precious.This week's matches in the First Division see last year's top three all facing testing away games and the quirky fixture list sees Yorkshire travel to Canterbury to face Kent for the second time this season.
Tomorrow sees the start of what the Harrogate club are calling their 'festival', when Leicestershire are the visitors for four days of second eleven cricket. When these fixtures were announced I know many enthusiasts were very much looking forward to visiting St George's Road, but if you saw the Countryfile forecast for the week ahead yesterday evening then it is difficult to imagine anything but disappointment for the club, players and spectators.More rain than last week? Impossible one might think but areas of low pressure were quueing up behind the forecaster's back with Wednesday looking particularly bad. With just over a week to go April has become a month to forget. League cricket organisers may have some difficult decisions to make by Friday.
For this blogger Saturday will bring some relief for by three o'clock on that day(kick off is at one) the worst season in Darlington's one hundred and twenty nine year history will be over. We welcome Kettering Town to The Arena, one of only two teams below us in The Blue Square Premier and like The Quakers, condemned to relegation, should be a cracker. At least the early kick off will allow time for me to see some cricket on the way home, weather permitting!
This morning's Yorkshire Post reveals the impact of the rain on Saturday's league cricket: a mixture of postponements, cancellations, abandonments and perhaps more games actually completed than might have been expected. It is with some disappointment that I discovered that play had been possible in three out of the four Wetherby League games I had tagged weeks ago for my Saturday entertainment and that my decision to play safe and go to Headingley was probably the wrong call.
My prediction that Yorkshire might be batting by lunch on Saturday also proved wrong, but not through a failure to break the overnight stand but because of good, dogged support for Bopara by the Essex tail and a well deserved century for Bopara himself who I feel has been rather shabbily treated by the England selectors. Take him and Masters away from the Essex side and they don't look much above ordinary.
Brian has described yesterday's events at Headingley and the counties who beat the rain and secured victories yesterday, Warwickshire and Hampshire, will count those extra points as very precious.This week's matches in the First Division see last year's top three all facing testing away games and the quirky fixture list sees Yorkshire travel to Canterbury to face Kent for the second time this season.
Tomorrow sees the start of what the Harrogate club are calling their 'festival', when Leicestershire are the visitors for four days of second eleven cricket. When these fixtures were announced I know many enthusiasts were very much looking forward to visiting St George's Road, but if you saw the Countryfile forecast for the week ahead yesterday evening then it is difficult to imagine anything but disappointment for the club, players and spectators.More rain than last week? Impossible one might think but areas of low pressure were quueing up behind the forecaster's back with Wednesday looking particularly bad. With just over a week to go April has become a month to forget. League cricket organisers may have some difficult decisions to make by Friday.
For this blogger Saturday will bring some relief for by three o'clock on that day(kick off is at one) the worst season in Darlington's one hundred and twenty nine year history will be over. We welcome Kettering Town to The Arena, one of only two teams below us in The Blue Square Premier and like The Quakers, condemned to relegation, should be a cracker. At least the early kick off will allow time for me to see some cricket on the way home, weather permitting!
Sunday 22 April 2012
RAINY HEADINGLEY
By Brian Sanderson,
When I set off to the match it was raining but the it stated on time.We decided to watch the innings inside as it looked like it would rain again.
Sayers was out first ball caught behind.It was set up for a twenty-twenty match inorder to set up a run chase.
It rain again and lost eight overs.Yorshire declared at 12.15 setting a target of 262 off 74 overs.My feeling was this was a generous declaration.Before lunch Shahzad collected two wickets.
Essex were 26 for two when the rain came to call off the match. During the rain I purchased a Yorkshire Second scorecard for 1948. So something good from to-day.
Prospects or the next few days are not good for Weetwood and Harrogate.
When I set off to the match it was raining but the it stated on time.We decided to watch the innings inside as it looked like it would rain again.
Sayers was out first ball caught behind.It was set up for a twenty-twenty match inorder to set up a run chase.
It rain again and lost eight overs.Yorshire declared at 12.15 setting a target of 262 off 74 overs.My feeling was this was a generous declaration.Before lunch Shahzad collected two wickets.
Essex were 26 for two when the rain came to call off the match. During the rain I purchased a Yorkshire Second scorecard for 1948. So something good from to-day.
Prospects or the next few days are not good for Weetwood and Harrogate.
Saturday 21 April 2012
SUNNY HEADINGLEY
By Brian Sanderson,
After the excellent victory by Leeds Rugby League last night I set off to the third day of the Essex match.When I left yesterday afternoon Essex had just started to bat so I was surprised to Yorkshire had collected five wickets.
Andrew from London was up for the match so he was pleased some cricket eventhough the weather forecast was bad.Foster was soon out caught by Mc Grath off Sidebottom. However the scoreboard shown it as run out and took a few minutes to alter the error.When Philips came in there was a delay for the groundsmen to draw extra lines for the runner so the umpire could see if runs were completed correctly.
There was annoying nineth wicket partnership between Bopara and Mills which only broken by a run out.
This was a poor call by Bopara who had batted well for 117 not out . Essex total beeing 199 so short of a batting point.
There had been a slight delay due to rain but the weather was warm in the sun. Ron Standsfield was sitting in the Trueman Encloser and it was freezing out of the sun and windy.Moved back to sunnier seats after lunch.
Root and Sayers batted well until Root was caught behind down the leg-side. He was not happy a nd could not tell wether it was with himself or the decision by Alex Wharfe.Sayers had been dropped by Petersen which could be a crucial point in the match. Jaques was out l.b.w sweeping.
During the match Leeds Rugby Union were playing Cornish Pirates which attract 1500 compared with 14000 for the Rugby League.
At the end of the day Yorkshire were 191 in front with eight wickets in hand. If the weather stays fine it should be a good day to-morrow.
After the excellent victory by Leeds Rugby League last night I set off to the third day of the Essex match.When I left yesterday afternoon Essex had just started to bat so I was surprised to Yorkshire had collected five wickets.
Andrew from London was up for the match so he was pleased some cricket eventhough the weather forecast was bad.Foster was soon out caught by Mc Grath off Sidebottom. However the scoreboard shown it as run out and took a few minutes to alter the error.When Philips came in there was a delay for the groundsmen to draw extra lines for the runner so the umpire could see if runs were completed correctly.
There was annoying nineth wicket partnership between Bopara and Mills which only broken by a run out.
This was a poor call by Bopara who had batted well for 117 not out . Essex total beeing 199 so short of a batting point.
There had been a slight delay due to rain but the weather was warm in the sun. Ron Standsfield was sitting in the Trueman Encloser and it was freezing out of the sun and windy.Moved back to sunnier seats after lunch.
Root and Sayers batted well until Root was caught behind down the leg-side. He was not happy a nd could not tell wether it was with himself or the decision by Alex Wharfe.Sayers had been dropped by Petersen which could be a crucial point in the match. Jaques was out l.b.w sweeping.
During the match Leeds Rugby Union were playing Cornish Pirates which attract 1500 compared with 14000 for the Rugby League.
At the end of the day Yorkshire were 191 in front with eight wickets in hand. If the weather stays fine it should be a good day to-morrow.
Saturday 21 April
Paddock, Augustinians, Outlane, Stainland, Elland, Blackley
First Day of the Local League Season
Six grounds on Day 1 - not bad!
First up, Paddock. The action seemed very close. Got a cup of tea from the portakabin tea toom and had a good sit-down high above the railway line. All very atmospheric. We caught the game just as it was starting.
Then up to Augustinians but no cricket in evidence at all. Has this club folded?
Outlane next. Not too much atmosphere but two people serving behind the bar. Very helpful to me about my requests and I had a 25p half of orange squash. Sat on the verendah - all very pleasant.
Then home for an hour - to enable me to have a little rest.
Then to Stainland where we got some tea - 3 salad rolls plus lots of lettuce and accompaniments. The last food left but very, very nice.
The game had finished because Stainland were a couple of men short and Bridgehome had run out easy winners.
Then a practice match was arranged and we seemed to catch the tail-end of this.
So off to Elland. Lots more going on there. I had a nibble at some nice sandwiches and a sit-down in the bar.
Finally, Blackley, our favourite. Looking good as ever, with secretary Julie Pearson and groundsman Joe Townsend very prominent in the pavilion.
A good opening day.
Paddock, Augustinians, Outlane, Stainland, Elland, Blackley
First Day of the Local League Season
Six grounds on Day 1 - not bad!
First up, Paddock. The action seemed very close. Got a cup of tea from the portakabin tea toom and had a good sit-down high above the railway line. All very atmospheric. We caught the game just as it was starting.
Then up to Augustinians but no cricket in evidence at all. Has this club folded?
Outlane next. Not too much atmosphere but two people serving behind the bar. Very helpful to me about my requests and I had a 25p half of orange squash. Sat on the verendah - all very pleasant.
Then home for an hour - to enable me to have a little rest.
Then to Stainland where we got some tea - 3 salad rolls plus lots of lettuce and accompaniments. The last food left but very, very nice.
The game had finished because Stainland were a couple of men short and Bridgehome had run out easy winners.
Then a practice match was arranged and we seemed to catch the tail-end of this.
So off to Elland. Lots more going on there. I had a nibble at some nice sandwiches and a sit-down in the bar.
Finally, Blackley, our favourite. Looking good as ever, with secretary Julie Pearson and groundsman Joe Townsend very prominent in the pavilion.
A good opening day.
More Rain at HQ
Posted by Peter Davies
Friday 20th April
Lord's
Got up very early and popped into my favourite Internet cafe (of all time) to write a few emails and do a bit of blogging. Then bought a cup of tea at a local cafe. Then back to the hotel for some rest.
Then out to the bank and a tube to Lord's - just one stop away.
I keep asking people for hotel recommendations near Lords's - cheap ones - but everyone seems to think I've got a good deal in Baker Street. Maybe I should use this as my base in future?
The weather was looking good at Lord's - about time! I had a sit down and then up to the library to find my friend Neil Robinson - the MCC librarian (great job). I also met Mike (from Cornwall) and Emma, the Taking the Field mastermind. All very ineresting chat.
Popped out for a watch of the cricket - and then back to the library. Then out for lunch and back again. On the Lord's photocopier I was copying club centenary brochures because I want to build up a big collection and add to what I already have. But far too many - so more trips to Lord's planned with photocoying high on the agenda.
Did 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off the copier because it was accident-prone, and then at 5pm I poppped out to watch the cricket. But they went off for rain soon after. Strauss had gone for 0 and they were being rescued by their middle order.
I'm a Middlesex country member and I asked how long it would take to become an MCC member. Not worth bothering about and VERY expensive.
Was not allowed into the pavilion because I wasn't wearing a jacket - par for the course - but tried to get in by walking round the front of the pavilion. But got accosted by the stewards - not a good idea. It started to rain again, then play was called off for the day.
So made my way back to Kings Cross. bought a couple of magazines and got on the train. Good journey, though more head pains. Not good. Home 11.20. Good trip to the Metropolis.
Friday 20th April
Lord's
Got up very early and popped into my favourite Internet cafe (of all time) to write a few emails and do a bit of blogging. Then bought a cup of tea at a local cafe. Then back to the hotel for some rest.
Then out to the bank and a tube to Lord's - just one stop away.
I keep asking people for hotel recommendations near Lords's - cheap ones - but everyone seems to think I've got a good deal in Baker Street. Maybe I should use this as my base in future?
The weather was looking good at Lord's - about time! I had a sit down and then up to the library to find my friend Neil Robinson - the MCC librarian (great job). I also met Mike (from Cornwall) and Emma, the Taking the Field mastermind. All very ineresting chat.
Popped out for a watch of the cricket - and then back to the library. Then out for lunch and back again. On the Lord's photocopier I was copying club centenary brochures because I want to build up a big collection and add to what I already have. But far too many - so more trips to Lord's planned with photocoying high on the agenda.
Did 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off the copier because it was accident-prone, and then at 5pm I poppped out to watch the cricket. But they went off for rain soon after. Strauss had gone for 0 and they were being rescued by their middle order.
I'm a Middlesex country member and I asked how long it would take to become an MCC member. Not worth bothering about and VERY expensive.
Was not allowed into the pavilion because I wasn't wearing a jacket - par for the course - but tried to get in by walking round the front of the pavilion. But got accosted by the stewards - not a good idea. It started to rain again, then play was called off for the day.
So made my way back to Kings Cross. bought a couple of magazines and got on the train. Good journey, though more head pains. Not good. Home 11.20. Good trip to the Metropolis.
Jacques begins in style.
posted by John Winn
Much encouraged by Yorkshire Cricket's tweets I drove to Headingley on Friday morning and took my seat in plenty of time to see Root and Sayers open the batting against Essex. Passing through the long room the buzz was about Yorkshire's decision to bat, for in the seven other championship games in progress the team winning the toss had elected to field in six cases. The only exceptions to this were Glamorgan,and it didn't get them very far. When Root was dismissed by Masters in the first over and replaced by the newly arrived Phil Jacques it was difficult not to fear the worst. 'Forget promotion' was the advice from one sage.
Jacques, however, was impressive from the start. Whatever his preparation has been for batting in a cold English spring Yorkshire should take detailed notes and replicate it for all batsmen in 2013. With Sayers happy to take a supporting role scampering quick singles and looking solid the partnership progressed fluently until the last ball before lunch, when with the partnership worth 96, Sayers was out to the lively Mills.
For an hour after lunch all was well, runs came at four an over and the sun shone, Jacques and Gale tucked in to some wayward bowling and Yorkshire reached 184 for two. When tea was taken at 4:20 they were all out for 246 and early season gloom had returned. Leaving aside Ballance, the last six batsmen made just fourteen between them and none could take pride in their efforts. If one was to look for an excuse for such a collapse then it might lie in the loss of the first day's play and the need to press for a result inside three days but only one batting point? Not good enough.
I left at this point but followed the rest of the day's events closely and was delighted to see Sidebottom and Patterson (why didn't he play against Kent?)make immediate inroads into the Essex batting. The Bopara/Foster partnership, worth 30 overnight, is critical and if it can be broken early this morning then Yorkshire might be batting by lunch.Essex trail by 172 and the tail beckons. Early reports from Headingley are that it is fine and the forecast looks similar to yesterday when both in the sky and on the field things turned out better than expected.
As I mentioned in yesterday's posting I had mapped out visits to a number of grounds in The Wetherby League, but it looks likely that the league cricket programme may get off to at best a patchy start. All games in at least three leagues, Bradford, Yorkshire and Central Yorkshire have been postponed and will be played in September and there are sure to be many other cancellations so I will play safe and head for HQ.
Friday 20 April 2012
Contrasting days out
posted by John Winn
The charm of the man! Peter Davies goes to The Oval yesterday and gains access to the library,discovers there is a book sale and makes friends with the librarian to the point where she is prepared to do some photocopying for him. I go the Oval on the same day and am told at 15:55 that if I wait another five minutes I can go in and look at the covers. Having arrived at The Hobbs Gate shortly after eleven at which point sunshine was accompanying a heavy shower, I was informed by the ticket office custodian that it had been 'raining since like Tuesday'(which Tuesday was not specified) but there had been no announcement about prospects of play.At this point the rain intensified and it was clear that there would be no play before lunch so I took the tube back to Pimlico (no passport needed)and passed a couple of hours in The Tate Gallery where by following Surrey cricket on Twitter I received regular reports of the prospects of play.
The reports only added to my frustration for short periods of sunshine brought activity for the grounds staff and the promise of an inspection at 13:40 only for further heavy rain to intervene.The pattern was repeated later in the afternoon with early tea and another inspection at 15:30 which persuaded me that I should return to the ground but on emerging from Oval station I was met by more heavy rain and the news that another inspection was to be held at quarter past four.
Fortress Oval having finally allowed access I was in a splendid position to see the umpires emerge and decide that play should be abandoned for the day and so Surrey v Worcestershire will remain a listed match at least until next month when the two teams will meet at New Road, weather permitting.Forgive my pessimism on this point but fixtures between these two teams have a bit of previous with me. In 1978 I was at New Road to see a John Player match with Surrey the visitors but this was reduced to 13 overs a side because of rain. For the record Worcestershire won by 63 runs with Ormrod their top scorer.
What of today? When I arrived back in York shortly after half past eight yesterday evening it was raining and this morning it is not but the air is dank and the forecast is for more heavy showers so the prospects at Headingley must be gloomy.For tomorrow I had planned an afternoon watching some Wetherby League Cricket but that too must be very doubtful and after seeing Darlington relegated last Saturday I'm not sure I fancy seeing Harrogate Town take a step nearer the same fate tomorrow. Been a grand week.
There was of course no play at Lords yesterday but Peter will be there today and who knows who he will meet. The possibilities are endless, librarian, museum curator, don't rule out Andrew Strauss speaking at next year's Pennine Conference.
ps On Twitter Yorkshire Cricket tells me that nets are up at Headingley and players are preparing for practice, I can feel my spirits lifting!
The charm of the man! Peter Davies goes to The Oval yesterday and gains access to the library,discovers there is a book sale and makes friends with the librarian to the point where she is prepared to do some photocopying for him. I go the Oval on the same day and am told at 15:55 that if I wait another five minutes I can go in and look at the covers. Having arrived at The Hobbs Gate shortly after eleven at which point sunshine was accompanying a heavy shower, I was informed by the ticket office custodian that it had been 'raining since like Tuesday'(which Tuesday was not specified) but there had been no announcement about prospects of play.At this point the rain intensified and it was clear that there would be no play before lunch so I took the tube back to Pimlico (no passport needed)and passed a couple of hours in The Tate Gallery where by following Surrey cricket on Twitter I received regular reports of the prospects of play.
The reports only added to my frustration for short periods of sunshine brought activity for the grounds staff and the promise of an inspection at 13:40 only for further heavy rain to intervene.The pattern was repeated later in the afternoon with early tea and another inspection at 15:30 which persuaded me that I should return to the ground but on emerging from Oval station I was met by more heavy rain and the news that another inspection was to be held at quarter past four.
Fortress Oval having finally allowed access I was in a splendid position to see the umpires emerge and decide that play should be abandoned for the day and so Surrey v Worcestershire will remain a listed match at least until next month when the two teams will meet at New Road, weather permitting.Forgive my pessimism on this point but fixtures between these two teams have a bit of previous with me. In 1978 I was at New Road to see a John Player match with Surrey the visitors but this was reduced to 13 overs a side because of rain. For the record Worcestershire won by 63 runs with Ormrod their top scorer.
What of today? When I arrived back in York shortly after half past eight yesterday evening it was raining and this morning it is not but the air is dank and the forecast is for more heavy showers so the prospects at Headingley must be gloomy.For tomorrow I had planned an afternoon watching some Wetherby League Cricket but that too must be very doubtful and after seeing Darlington relegated last Saturday I'm not sure I fancy seeing Harrogate Town take a step nearer the same fate tomorrow. Been a grand week.
There was of course no play at Lords yesterday but Peter will be there today and who knows who he will meet. The possibilities are endless, librarian, museum curator, don't rule out Andrew Strauss speaking at next year's Pennine Conference.
ps On Twitter Yorkshire Cricket tells me that nets are up at Headingley and players are preparing for practice, I can feel my spirits lifting!
Thursday 19 April 2012
London Calling
Posted by Peter Davies
Baker Street, London
Friday 20 April
A trip down to London, but no change in my luck.
Rain again, washing out Surrey-Worcestershire yesterday, so I had to content myself with other things.
First up, a meeting with Jo Miller, The Oval's librarian. A nice woman and she was overseeing a book sale in one of the rooms high above the pitch. So I spent a lot of money!
Then she got her collection of centenary brochures out. I picked out quite a few and she's going to do some photocopying for me. I have a big collection of club centenary brochures and I want to add to it.
Then a wander round the ground, the 1st Floor museum, a cup of tea, a drink of orange and a bit of the IPL on TV.
Then back to my hotel near Baker Street and close to Lord's where I'll be off today.
I have a funny relationship with London.
In 1995 I got very ill on a trip down to see a friend in Burnt Oak and ended up in hospital for two days. This was nothing to do with my current illness but it was awful. And ever since I've had a phobia about London - hated the place, hated even the mention of it.
But now I'm getting into the place again. Cheap train tickets, nice hotels and cricket - obviously - are helping. Going to do lots more cricket - and other things - in the capital this summer.
My hotel is fine, if rather expensive, and I'll be looking for a cheaper one near Lord's/The Oval for future visits I think.
Baker Street, London
Friday 20 April
A trip down to London, but no change in my luck.
Rain again, washing out Surrey-Worcestershire yesterday, so I had to content myself with other things.
First up, a meeting with Jo Miller, The Oval's librarian. A nice woman and she was overseeing a book sale in one of the rooms high above the pitch. So I spent a lot of money!
Then she got her collection of centenary brochures out. I picked out quite a few and she's going to do some photocopying for me. I have a big collection of club centenary brochures and I want to add to it.
Then a wander round the ground, the 1st Floor museum, a cup of tea, a drink of orange and a bit of the IPL on TV.
Then back to my hotel near Baker Street and close to Lord's where I'll be off today.
I have a funny relationship with London.
In 1995 I got very ill on a trip down to see a friend in Burnt Oak and ended up in hospital for two days. This was nothing to do with my current illness but it was awful. And ever since I've had a phobia about London - hated the place, hated even the mention of it.
But now I'm getting into the place again. Cheap train tickets, nice hotels and cricket - obviously - are helping. Going to do lots more cricket - and other things - in the capital this summer.
My hotel is fine, if rather expensive, and I'll be looking for a cheaper one near Lord's/The Oval for future visits I think.
Wednesday 18 April 2012
Another Washout!
Posted by Peter Davies
Wednesday 18 April
Nottingham
Two days of 2nd XI cricket this season and two washouts. Not good!
Nottinghamshire were at home to Lancashire but there was never much chance of cricket with the rain pretty constant.
So I got a seat in the pavilion, read my paper, read Le Figaro (my French paper - I'm trying to read up on the French elections. French politics was my specialism at university) and also read up on Saltaire CC.
I had a cup of tea and also ordered a lunch. When this arrived I was not disappointed. Chilli plus rice and salad and there was so much left I could have second helpings too.
Not many big names playing in the game - only really Oliver Newby on the Lancashire side. Jeremy Lloyds was umpiring and Gary Yates was looking after the Lancashire boys.
The ground was large and functional - a bit like Weetwood in Leeds. Not pretty but OK.
It was actually in the shadow of Trent Bridge, with the two soccer grounds nearby too.
The day's play was called off after lunch and I nipped into town for a coffee before getting the train to Sheffield for my cinema course.
Wednesday 18 April
Nottingham
Two days of 2nd XI cricket this season and two washouts. Not good!
Nottinghamshire were at home to Lancashire but there was never much chance of cricket with the rain pretty constant.
So I got a seat in the pavilion, read my paper, read Le Figaro (my French paper - I'm trying to read up on the French elections. French politics was my specialism at university) and also read up on Saltaire CC.
I had a cup of tea and also ordered a lunch. When this arrived I was not disappointed. Chilli plus rice and salad and there was so much left I could have second helpings too.
Not many big names playing in the game - only really Oliver Newby on the Lancashire side. Jeremy Lloyds was umpiring and Gary Yates was looking after the Lancashire boys.
The ground was large and functional - a bit like Weetwood in Leeds. Not pretty but OK.
It was actually in the shadow of Trent Bridge, with the two soccer grounds nearby too.
The day's play was called off after lunch and I nipped into town for a coffee before getting the train to Sheffield for my cinema course.
Tuesday 17 April 2012
Notts and Derbyshire lead the way.
posted by John Winn
Somewhere within the confines of the ECB there is probably a sense of relief that, despite the earliest start to a County Championship season ever, of the fourteen matches played in the first two rounds only one has ended in a draw. That of course was the game at Headingley between Yorkshire and Kent, and even that held some interest until bad light intervened after tea on the last afternoon.
As an added bonus the matches have produced a number of close finishes. Take last Sunday for example when Middlesex beat Surrey by just three runs, Warwickshire beat Somerset by two wickets and Gloucestershire finished with a 33 run advantage over Hampshire. At Lords, where free admission was not enough of an incentive to attract more than a couple of hundred spectators, those who did attend saw Surrey lose their last five wickets for 36 and team director Chris Adams complained that 'it was probably the worst Lords' pitch (he) had ever seen'.
Low scores have been a feature of many of the games: champions Lancashire bowled out twice by Sussex for less than 200, Durham would have suffered the same fate against Notts but for a last wicket second innings stand between Claydon and Onions, Glamorgan managed only 95 and 102 against Derbyshire and Somerset, normally such prolific scorers, were dismissed for 147 by Warwickshire in their first innings. It would appear that the bowlers have found the early start and the accompanying temperatures to their liking. Could it be for batsmen at least that pre-season practice in Dubai or Barbados is not the ideal preparation for spring in Chester-le Street or Headingley or anywhere else in England in such cold conditions?
And from a spectator's point of view to what extent does exciting cricket compensate for the need to pack blankets and hot water bottles rather than the sun hat and factor 30 when setting off for a day's cricket watching? Perhaps next season's early amtches might be sponsored by Thinsulate.
Another round of matches starts on Thursday with Yorkshire at home to Essex and Durham at Lord's. This blogger is off to The Oval early on Thursday, train tickets booked in January when it was probably warmer than it is now, and my first listed match of the season when Surrey host Worcestershire. The weather forecast is not good and it may be that I will need to investigate the reduced price theatre ticket bureau's options for Thursday matinees. Let's hope that men in white are not replaced by The Woman in Black.
Somewhere within the confines of the ECB there is probably a sense of relief that, despite the earliest start to a County Championship season ever, of the fourteen matches played in the first two rounds only one has ended in a draw. That of course was the game at Headingley between Yorkshire and Kent, and even that held some interest until bad light intervened after tea on the last afternoon.
As an added bonus the matches have produced a number of close finishes. Take last Sunday for example when Middlesex beat Surrey by just three runs, Warwickshire beat Somerset by two wickets and Gloucestershire finished with a 33 run advantage over Hampshire. At Lords, where free admission was not enough of an incentive to attract more than a couple of hundred spectators, those who did attend saw Surrey lose their last five wickets for 36 and team director Chris Adams complained that 'it was probably the worst Lords' pitch (he) had ever seen'.
Low scores have been a feature of many of the games: champions Lancashire bowled out twice by Sussex for less than 200, Durham would have suffered the same fate against Notts but for a last wicket second innings stand between Claydon and Onions, Glamorgan managed only 95 and 102 against Derbyshire and Somerset, normally such prolific scorers, were dismissed for 147 by Warwickshire in their first innings. It would appear that the bowlers have found the early start and the accompanying temperatures to their liking. Could it be for batsmen at least that pre-season practice in Dubai or Barbados is not the ideal preparation for spring in Chester-le Street or Headingley or anywhere else in England in such cold conditions?
And from a spectator's point of view to what extent does exciting cricket compensate for the need to pack blankets and hot water bottles rather than the sun hat and factor 30 when setting off for a day's cricket watching? Perhaps next season's early amtches might be sponsored by Thinsulate.
Another round of matches starts on Thursday with Yorkshire at home to Essex and Durham at Lord's. This blogger is off to The Oval early on Thursday, train tickets booked in January when it was probably warmer than it is now, and my first listed match of the season when Surrey host Worcestershire. The weather forecast is not good and it may be that I will need to investigate the reduced price theatre ticket bureau's options for Thursday matinees. Let's hope that men in white are not replaced by The Woman in Black.
Sunday 15 April 2012
Big Mistake
Sunday 15 April
Accrington
Posted by Peter Davies
Weird day!
Found a friendly fixture on the Internet. Turned up at Accrington but I had a horrible feeling the game was at Haslingden!
Anyway, nothing doing at Accrington. So I took some photos and had a wander round. Nice out-of-town ground and obviously a big club, supported of course by David 'Bumble' Lloyd!
Lots of bench plaques, so I took some photos. Most just outside the pavilion.
But the ground was looking good, pristene in fact. Really green and healthy.
Got a taxi back to the train station and from there on to Halifax and Huddersfield.
Accrington
Posted by Peter Davies
Weird day!
Found a friendly fixture on the Internet. Turned up at Accrington but I had a horrible feeling the game was at Haslingden!
Anyway, nothing doing at Accrington. So I took some photos and had a wander round. Nice out-of-town ground and obviously a big club, supported of course by David 'Bumble' Lloyd!
Lots of bench plaques, so I took some photos. Most just outside the pavilion.
But the ground was looking good, pristene in fact. Really green and healthy.
Got a taxi back to the train station and from there on to Halifax and Huddersfield.
WEATHER FORECAST FINE
By Brian Sandrson,
Set off this morning with the prospect of good days cricket which had three results.
Even the Yorkshire steward was talking about it.
The four Leeds and Bradford wickets fall quite quickly due mainly to Rafiq who took two wickets.Root was out l.bw in the first over with the ball keeping low.Still the match was set up to good match.
After lunch I sat with David Thorp in brillant sunshine. Sayers and McGrath were batting well.Leeds and Bradford bowlers bowled tight and Mc Grath was out again for l.b.w.Gale came into bat and then the hail came down causing a early tea.However it carried on raining and the groundsmen brought on the covers.Disappointment the match was called a draw.Fustrated by the rain which was not expected.
Talk in the Long Room turned to matches next week and Yorkshire selection.You please think McGrath will play against Essex with Jacques coming in after his wedding.
Set off this morning with the prospect of good days cricket which had three results.
Even the Yorkshire steward was talking about it.
The four Leeds and Bradford wickets fall quite quickly due mainly to Rafiq who took two wickets.Root was out l.bw in the first over with the ball keeping low.Still the match was set up to good match.
After lunch I sat with David Thorp in brillant sunshine. Sayers and McGrath were batting well.Leeds and Bradford bowlers bowled tight and Mc Grath was out again for l.b.w.Gale came into bat and then the hail came down causing a early tea.However it carried on raining and the groundsmen brought on the covers.Disappointment the match was called a draw.Fustrated by the rain which was not expected.
Talk in the Long Room turned to matches next week and Yorkshire selection.You please think McGrath will play against Essex with Jacques coming in after his wedding.
Drawing a Blank!
Posted by Peter Davies
Bradford League
A weird day!
First up Saltaire - a friendly fixture publicised on the Web but when we arrived at the ground there was nothing doing. A couple of club officials doing the ground and a few locals loitering around the parkside ground, but absolutely no cricket.
So I had a wander and, with my friends David and Heather - up for the day from Hinckley, Leics - we had a cup of tea in the Roberts Park cafe. Some excellent SCC team photos on the wall - all from the early twentieth century.
And a bit of history:
'Saltaire Cricket Club was founded in 1869, just 16 years after the opening of the famous Saltaire Mills in 1853. Ever since the club has been in existence it has played in Roberts Park.
'The local history of Saltaire, records that Roberts Park was not officially opened until July 25, 1871 by Sir Titus Salt, and there is no record of them having played elsewhere, so it is assumed that the club must have played the first seasons on the pitch by the riverside during the period when the park was being laid out.
'Sir Titus Salt bought the cannons which used to stand on the parade in the park in August 1869.
'The area of Roberts Park, intended as a recreation games area, is 14 acres. The cricket ground covers five acres approximately 900ft long and 350ft wide with the river running the along whole of the west side of the field.
'When the ground was first laid out it was subject to flooding from the river in high water, but the situation was improved by widening the river to 60 to 70ft which avoided flooding.'
From there, and after David and Heather had set off home, it was across Bradford to Idle. Lots of jokes here - the Idle Workingmen's Club etc - but the joke was on me as the friendly game seemed to have finished early. Lots of folk still around but no cricket.
Again, some interesting photos on the pavilion wall. A full pavilion with locals enjoying a hearty drink. Lots of club notices on the wall and not a bad turnout, and atmosphere, for a pre-season friendly. But another blank.
Bradford League
A weird day!
First up Saltaire - a friendly fixture publicised on the Web but when we arrived at the ground there was nothing doing. A couple of club officials doing the ground and a few locals loitering around the parkside ground, but absolutely no cricket.
So I had a wander and, with my friends David and Heather - up for the day from Hinckley, Leics - we had a cup of tea in the Roberts Park cafe. Some excellent SCC team photos on the wall - all from the early twentieth century.
And a bit of history:
'Saltaire Cricket Club was founded in 1869, just 16 years after the opening of the famous Saltaire Mills in 1853. Ever since the club has been in existence it has played in Roberts Park.
'The local history of Saltaire, records that Roberts Park was not officially opened until July 25, 1871 by Sir Titus Salt, and there is no record of them having played elsewhere, so it is assumed that the club must have played the first seasons on the pitch by the riverside during the period when the park was being laid out.
'Sir Titus Salt bought the cannons which used to stand on the parade in the park in August 1869.
'The area of Roberts Park, intended as a recreation games area, is 14 acres. The cricket ground covers five acres approximately 900ft long and 350ft wide with the river running the along whole of the west side of the field.
'When the ground was first laid out it was subject to flooding from the river in high water, but the situation was improved by widening the river to 60 to 70ft which avoided flooding.'
From there, and after David and Heather had set off home, it was across Bradford to Idle. Lots of jokes here - the Idle Workingmen's Club etc - but the joke was on me as the friendly game seemed to have finished early. Lots of folk still around but no cricket.
Again, some interesting photos on the pavilion wall. A full pavilion with locals enjoying a hearty drink. Lots of club notices on the wall and not a bad turnout, and atmosphere, for a pre-season friendly. But another blank.
Saturday 14 April 2012
BUSY DAY IN SPORT
By Brian Sanderson,
I was about to set off to see the second day of Yorkshire match when it started to rain.So settled down to watch Australian Rugby League from Darwin.The temperature was 28 degrees and humity of 80%.Again to warm for me.At the end of the match ,the rain had stopped so wandered over to the stadium.It is not a cricket ground.
Play would not start until 1.40 however I collected my Second Team Annual from Howard Clayton.Playfair is still coming from Amazon.Sat next to Andy to see Yorkshire been bowled out for 135 with Leach taking 3 for 15.One of Leeds and Bradford University bowler is Ivan Thomas who took a hat-trick last season for Kent Seconds.It is only in the Second Team Annual can you find this fact.Well done Howard Clayton, Editor.
I watched the University innings with Tony Hutton who has given a number of League Handbooks to the Yorkshire Archives. Thank you Tony.Also there was Jenny who said she would be reading the blog on Sunday.Thank you Jenny for viewing the blog.
While we were watching the match The Grand National was on the T.V.One of the horses was called Shakalakaboomboom and its name was called a number of times.The name could have belonged to a Sri Lanka 20/20 cricketer.
Again Mc Grath was the best bowler with 4 for 28 but Luis Reece scored fifty to keep Yorkshire bowling.Last season he scored 144* for Lancashire Seconds against Sussex.Guess were I found that fact from ?.
University are over 200 in front and this will set up a good third day if it stays dry.
Good news was that Ayr United won this afternoon.Back to reading the Annual
I was about to set off to see the second day of Yorkshire match when it started to rain.So settled down to watch Australian Rugby League from Darwin.The temperature was 28 degrees and humity of 80%.Again to warm for me.At the end of the match ,the rain had stopped so wandered over to the stadium.It is not a cricket ground.
Play would not start until 1.40 however I collected my Second Team Annual from Howard Clayton.Playfair is still coming from Amazon.Sat next to Andy to see Yorkshire been bowled out for 135 with Leach taking 3 for 15.One of Leeds and Bradford University bowler is Ivan Thomas who took a hat-trick last season for Kent Seconds.It is only in the Second Team Annual can you find this fact.Well done Howard Clayton, Editor.
I watched the University innings with Tony Hutton who has given a number of League Handbooks to the Yorkshire Archives. Thank you Tony.Also there was Jenny who said she would be reading the blog on Sunday.Thank you Jenny for viewing the blog.
While we were watching the match The Grand National was on the T.V.One of the horses was called Shakalakaboomboom and its name was called a number of times.The name could have belonged to a Sri Lanka 20/20 cricketer.
Again Mc Grath was the best bowler with 4 for 28 but Luis Reece scored fifty to keep Yorkshire bowling.Last season he scored 144* for Lancashire Seconds against Sussex.Guess were I found that fact from ?.
University are over 200 in front and this will set up a good third day if it stays dry.
Good news was that Ayr United won this afternoon.Back to reading the Annual
PLANNING FOR THE SEASON
By Brian Sanderson,
On Friday I walked over to see Leeds and Bradford University for the first time this sesaon against Yorkshire.The admission was free but the crowd was not as big as a Scottish Second division match.
The first person I meet in the Long Room was Tony Hutton.His project for this season was country house cricket. To watch cricket like Chatsworth House.When I was in Leeds library recently ,I read paper from the 1860.s.One of the matches was Harewood House against Temple Newsam House.So there is plenty of history in these matches.
Next to arrive was Ron Deaton who brought the fixtures for the Feversham League .This league is situated in the North Yorkshire Moor.The clubs are Duncombe Park, Gillamore,Slingsby and Spout House. We hope to visit these clubs this summer.
Leeds and Bradford won the toss and batted.Yorkhire best bowler was Anthony Mc Grath taking three wickets for tenty-eight.He is 36 years old so it shows up the youngier bowlers.The best batsman was Alex Macqueen who is in the Surrey Academy and scored 69.He is studing history and sociology and a man with a future in cricket. The team scored 211 which was about 100 more than they should hve scored.
I left early to watch te rugby with Sayers and Mc Grath batting.After the rugby I called into the East Sand bar and paid £3.20 for a beer in a plastic glass. This will be my last visit to this corner of the Headingley ground.
Looked at the Yorksire score this morning 80 for 6 .Not looing good for the coming season.May be the 36 year old Brophy will rescue Yorkshire.
On Friday I walked over to see Leeds and Bradford University for the first time this sesaon against Yorkshire.The admission was free but the crowd was not as big as a Scottish Second division match.
The first person I meet in the Long Room was Tony Hutton.His project for this season was country house cricket. To watch cricket like Chatsworth House.When I was in Leeds library recently ,I read paper from the 1860.s.One of the matches was Harewood House against Temple Newsam House.So there is plenty of history in these matches.
Next to arrive was Ron Deaton who brought the fixtures for the Feversham League .This league is situated in the North Yorkshire Moor.The clubs are Duncombe Park, Gillamore,Slingsby and Spout House. We hope to visit these clubs this summer.
Leeds and Bradford won the toss and batted.Yorkhire best bowler was Anthony Mc Grath taking three wickets for tenty-eight.He is 36 years old so it shows up the youngier bowlers.The best batsman was Alex Macqueen who is in the Surrey Academy and scored 69.He is studing history and sociology and a man with a future in cricket. The team scored 211 which was about 100 more than they should hve scored.
I left early to watch te rugby with Sayers and Mc Grath batting.After the rugby I called into the East Sand bar and paid £3.20 for a beer in a plastic glass. This will be my last visit to this corner of the Headingley ground.
Looked at the Yorksire score this morning 80 for 6 .Not looing good for the coming season.May be the 36 year old Brophy will rescue Yorkshire.
Reasons to be cheerful, not really.
posted by John Winn
Having thought a visit to The Riverside the least likely option for yesterday's cricket watching, an offer to give me a lift if I could make my way to Darlington saw me driving up the A1 at 9:30 and my friend Alan Pinkney and I were able to watch the opening overs from the comfort of the members' lounge fortified by bacon sandwiches.The morning proved a disaster for Durham. Starting the day on 55 for 3 it was felt that if they could bat for two sessions they could establish a lead of a hundred runs which, in what seemed likely to be a low scoring match, would place them in a strong position. As it happened survival for one session proved too much and Notts began their second innings shortly before lunch. Beginning with Benkenstein's dismissal after just ten minutes play Durham lost wickets at regular and frequent intervals to be bowled out for 129, a deficit of 32. Whilst it was clear that batting was not an easy prospect Durham did not help their cause with some poor shot selection. Indeed although it is barely the middle of April and only the second day of Durham's championship campaign, when the awards are distributed in September it will be a surprise if Blackwell's yahoo does not receive several nominations for bad shot of the season. I hope I see nothing worse.
After lunch the sun shone periodically and Notts, especially Alex Hales, made batting look easy. Some of Durham's bowling was little better than their batting. The chief culprit here was Claydon, who had bowled so well on Thursday. Perhaps dazzled by his glowing reviews in the morning's Northern Echo he served up ten overs that yielded fifty one runs for no return. Blackwell compensated a little for his pre lunch efforts by putting the brakes on Notts' progress and picking up two wickets.By the close Notts lead by 263 with six second innings wickets in hand.
As I write this at ten o'clock on Saturday morning it is raining outside and I am informed it is the same in County Durham.. The forecast for tomorrow is better, if you ignore the bit about snow, and it is hard to imagine that enough play could be lost to save this game for the home side. A Notts win would build on their victory over Worcestershire last week while Durham would face the prospect of successive away games with just three points in the bag.
On the positive side a full day's play was possible yesterday and the sun shone at times, but even when it did the air was still chilled. The national forecast for today includes terms like 'scattered','will intensify', 'chance of hail or thunder','turning wintry', and 'may fall as sleet or snow', hardly likely to induce many to make the trip to Chester le Street, or cricket anywhere else. Just in case you are feeling a little despondent, and I won't mention yesterday's events at Headingley, how about this for a thrilling prospect? My afternoon will be spent watching a football match between the teams who occupy 22nd and 24th positions in the Blue Square Conference. The latter are Bath City who are already relegated and the hosts are Darlington who even if they win,and they haven't managed that for four months, probably will have their relegation confirmed today. All this in a stadium filled to less that 5% of its capacity. Can't wait but lots of others can and will.
Having thought a visit to The Riverside the least likely option for yesterday's cricket watching, an offer to give me a lift if I could make my way to Darlington saw me driving up the A1 at 9:30 and my friend Alan Pinkney and I were able to watch the opening overs from the comfort of the members' lounge fortified by bacon sandwiches.The morning proved a disaster for Durham. Starting the day on 55 for 3 it was felt that if they could bat for two sessions they could establish a lead of a hundred runs which, in what seemed likely to be a low scoring match, would place them in a strong position. As it happened survival for one session proved too much and Notts began their second innings shortly before lunch. Beginning with Benkenstein's dismissal after just ten minutes play Durham lost wickets at regular and frequent intervals to be bowled out for 129, a deficit of 32. Whilst it was clear that batting was not an easy prospect Durham did not help their cause with some poor shot selection. Indeed although it is barely the middle of April and only the second day of Durham's championship campaign, when the awards are distributed in September it will be a surprise if Blackwell's yahoo does not receive several nominations for bad shot of the season. I hope I see nothing worse.
After lunch the sun shone periodically and Notts, especially Alex Hales, made batting look easy. Some of Durham's bowling was little better than their batting. The chief culprit here was Claydon, who had bowled so well on Thursday. Perhaps dazzled by his glowing reviews in the morning's Northern Echo he served up ten overs that yielded fifty one runs for no return. Blackwell compensated a little for his pre lunch efforts by putting the brakes on Notts' progress and picking up two wickets.By the close Notts lead by 263 with six second innings wickets in hand.
As I write this at ten o'clock on Saturday morning it is raining outside and I am informed it is the same in County Durham.. The forecast for tomorrow is better, if you ignore the bit about snow, and it is hard to imagine that enough play could be lost to save this game for the home side. A Notts win would build on their victory over Worcestershire last week while Durham would face the prospect of successive away games with just three points in the bag.
On the positive side a full day's play was possible yesterday and the sun shone at times, but even when it did the air was still chilled. The national forecast for today includes terms like 'scattered','will intensify', 'chance of hail or thunder','turning wintry', and 'may fall as sleet or snow', hardly likely to induce many to make the trip to Chester le Street, or cricket anywhere else. Just in case you are feeling a little despondent, and I won't mention yesterday's events at Headingley, how about this for a thrilling prospect? My afternoon will be spent watching a football match between the teams who occupy 22nd and 24th positions in the Blue Square Conference. The latter are Bath City who are already relegated and the hosts are Darlington who even if they win,and they haven't managed that for four months, probably will have their relegation confirmed today. All this in a stadium filled to less that 5% of its capacity. Can't wait but lots of others can and will.
Thursday 12 April 2012
The Mersey Beat
Posted by Peter Davies
Thursday 12 April
Liverpool
Lancashire's first home game of the season. Nice weather - I even got a little bit sunburned.
Got the very early train across from Huddersfield and I was having a cup of tea in Lime Street train station at 8am. Made some phone calls, read the paper, then got the train across to Aigburth.
The ground was looking good but not a very large crowd. Lots of seats to be had. Lancashire batted first but it was a tale of woe with only Croft scoring any runs. And then Sussex batted. A dodgy start but then - after I'd gone - they picked up steam and look as if they will probably win the game.
Liverpool is one of my favourite grounds. I sat in the pavilion but also toured the ground and had a sleep near the sightscreen at the pavilion end. Lots of tea consumed and I enjoyed the salad lunch I had packed for myself.
Bought a few items from the club shop and also picked up my membership ticket - a valuable document! Met Geraldo from Gomersal and also saw a couple of other people I knew.
Left just after tea and I was pleased to take a new shortcut to the train station - this is going to save me 5/10 minutes every time I come to Aigburth.
Train home, very tired, then the PCS meal at Blackley - very nice.
Thursday 12 April
Liverpool
Lancashire's first home game of the season. Nice weather - I even got a little bit sunburned.
Got the very early train across from Huddersfield and I was having a cup of tea in Lime Street train station at 8am. Made some phone calls, read the paper, then got the train across to Aigburth.
The ground was looking good but not a very large crowd. Lots of seats to be had. Lancashire batted first but it was a tale of woe with only Croft scoring any runs. And then Sussex batted. A dodgy start but then - after I'd gone - they picked up steam and look as if they will probably win the game.
Liverpool is one of my favourite grounds. I sat in the pavilion but also toured the ground and had a sleep near the sightscreen at the pavilion end. Lots of tea consumed and I enjoyed the salad lunch I had packed for myself.
Bought a few items from the club shop and also picked up my membership ticket - a valuable document! Met Geraldo from Gomersal and also saw a couple of other people I knew.
Left just after tea and I was pleased to take a new shortcut to the train station - this is going to save me 5/10 minutes every time I come to Aigburth.
Train home, very tired, then the PCS meal at Blackley - very nice.
At the centre of things
posted by John Winn
There is a corner of Yorkshire that is forever wet, or at least it is when I go there in the cricket season. The corner referred to is that at the north east edge of the county separated from County Durham by the River Tees and from Denmark by the North Sea and in the last four seasons I have made three trips to cricket grounds in this area and on each occasion seen no play.In 2009 I visited Middlesbrough CC and the match was abandoned. Last year it was Marske by The Sea where the match was abandoned after eight overs because the wicket was deemed dangerous and having been assured there was play by somebody who didn't look out of the bar window I travelled in vain.Yesterday I went to Marton CC, Middlesbrough,in the hope that there would be time before heavy showers intervened for some cricket. Alas the showers got there before I did, and I was there by 11:05,and they fell on top of turf soddened by heavy overnight rain and play was abandoned for the day at lunchtime.
An interesting feature of all three of these matches, apart from their losing battle with the weather, is that despite being played in Yorkshire they were all hosted by Durham.As I mentioned in Sunday's blog Marton are a thriving member of the NYSD league and last year won its knockout cup, the Kerridge Cup, which is proudly displayed in the very well appointed clubhouse. The friendly match between Durham II and Yorkshire II was scheduled for three days, but no play has been possible again today.One feels so sorry for the hosts in these situations for it is obvious that here is an ambitious club, proud to host such a game, perfectly capable of doing so and yet thwarted by rain. If the rain they have had today has been of the same intensity as we have experienced in the Lower Ure Valley this afternoon, then tomorrow's prospects must be doubtful.
What of tomorrow? I made an early decision this morning not to travel to Chester le Street where after a late start there have been 58 overs bowled so far (17:15).I console myself that my friend who has texted me with news of the steady fall of Notts' wickets is wearing fleece, overcoat, hat and gloves and is atill cold. A doctor's appointment in the morning prevents an early start and therefore probably rules out a trip to The Riverside.
Marton would be a new ground but I would not make the journey without the assurance that play was in progress. Headingley is the third option, Yorkshire v Leeds/Bradford University, the first day of three, and here again a late decision is possible.The forecast is a little more optimistic for tomorrow so here's hoping.
On a brighter note I had a phone call from a neighbour this afternoon whose family were very much involved in the running of Hessay Cricket Club until its demise about fifty years ago. Just in cae you are not familiar with the geography of the Vale of York, Hessay lies just off the A59 about five miles west of York and The Ordnance Survey has decreed it to be the centre of Yorkshire. If you don't believe me stick 'Hessay the centre of Yorkshire' into a search engine and without too much trouble it will lead you to an article published in The Yorkshire Post in February from which this information is taken, so it must be true.As well as its cricket team Hessay has lost many other things once considered essential to village life, its pub, school, station and shops, perhaps owing to its central position, there was even a Hessay Evening Cricket League. Not only does my neighbour own the very field deemed to be the centre of Yorkshire,more importantly she has in her possession memorabilia linked to Hessay CC which she is prepared to lend me. Not for nothing are the words cricket and heritage in the title of this blog even if Hessay is far removed from Kirklees and Calderdale.
There is a corner of Yorkshire that is forever wet, or at least it is when I go there in the cricket season. The corner referred to is that at the north east edge of the county separated from County Durham by the River Tees and from Denmark by the North Sea and in the last four seasons I have made three trips to cricket grounds in this area and on each occasion seen no play.In 2009 I visited Middlesbrough CC and the match was abandoned. Last year it was Marske by The Sea where the match was abandoned after eight overs because the wicket was deemed dangerous and having been assured there was play by somebody who didn't look out of the bar window I travelled in vain.Yesterday I went to Marton CC, Middlesbrough,in the hope that there would be time before heavy showers intervened for some cricket. Alas the showers got there before I did, and I was there by 11:05,and they fell on top of turf soddened by heavy overnight rain and play was abandoned for the day at lunchtime.
An interesting feature of all three of these matches, apart from their losing battle with the weather, is that despite being played in Yorkshire they were all hosted by Durham.As I mentioned in Sunday's blog Marton are a thriving member of the NYSD league and last year won its knockout cup, the Kerridge Cup, which is proudly displayed in the very well appointed clubhouse. The friendly match between Durham II and Yorkshire II was scheduled for three days, but no play has been possible again today.One feels so sorry for the hosts in these situations for it is obvious that here is an ambitious club, proud to host such a game, perfectly capable of doing so and yet thwarted by rain. If the rain they have had today has been of the same intensity as we have experienced in the Lower Ure Valley this afternoon, then tomorrow's prospects must be doubtful.
What of tomorrow? I made an early decision this morning not to travel to Chester le Street where after a late start there have been 58 overs bowled so far (17:15).I console myself that my friend who has texted me with news of the steady fall of Notts' wickets is wearing fleece, overcoat, hat and gloves and is atill cold. A doctor's appointment in the morning prevents an early start and therefore probably rules out a trip to The Riverside.
Marton would be a new ground but I would not make the journey without the assurance that play was in progress. Headingley is the third option, Yorkshire v Leeds/Bradford University, the first day of three, and here again a late decision is possible.The forecast is a little more optimistic for tomorrow so here's hoping.
On a brighter note I had a phone call from a neighbour this afternoon whose family were very much involved in the running of Hessay Cricket Club until its demise about fifty years ago. Just in cae you are not familiar with the geography of the Vale of York, Hessay lies just off the A59 about five miles west of York and The Ordnance Survey has decreed it to be the centre of Yorkshire. If you don't believe me stick 'Hessay the centre of Yorkshire' into a search engine and without too much trouble it will lead you to an article published in The Yorkshire Post in February from which this information is taken, so it must be true.As well as its cricket team Hessay has lost many other things once considered essential to village life, its pub, school, station and shops, perhaps owing to its central position, there was even a Hessay Evening Cricket League. Not only does my neighbour own the very field deemed to be the centre of Yorkshire,more importantly she has in her possession memorabilia linked to Hessay CC which she is prepared to lend me. Not for nothing are the words cricket and heritage in the title of this blog even if Hessay is far removed from Kirklees and Calderdale.
Tuesday 10 April 2012
Washout!
Monday 9 April
Rugby School
My first 2nd XI match for ages, if ever. Northants were playing at home at Rugby and I thought I'd take a trip down there - historic town and also the first day of the new 2nd XI season.
It rained all the way down on the train - and this didn't bode well. The taxi driver found the ground OK - as attractive as you'd expect of a public-school venue.
In fact, there were two grounds right next door to each other. The pavilion was neat and handsome and when I walked in this building I realised that the tea room was actually upstairs rather than on the ground floor. A nice modern interior with players ambling about.
There was going to be a delay until at least 2.30pm - lunch was going to be taken at 2pm - so I got down to some work and some reading. Cups of tea were on tap - and they were also free, which was great. Only one or two spectators but some historic photos and interesting booklets about Rugby cricket in the tearoom area. Nice pavilion and some very helpful RCC people on duty in the tearoom.
Realised too that Ismail Dawood was one of the umpires. I'd spoken to him during the CK project and it was good to chat to him again. Remarkably, he remembered me and we had an interesting conversation about umpiring, his cricket career and Hanging Heaton - his club. He'd been on the reserve/2nd XI umpires panel for 3/4 years and was hoping for elevation to the full list. Nice guy.
The day's play was eventually called off just before 3pm so I got a taxi back to the train station. The first washout of the season! Stopped off in Birmingham to do some shopping and from there home.
A wet and slightly depressing Bank Holiday Monday.
Rugby School
My first 2nd XI match for ages, if ever. Northants were playing at home at Rugby and I thought I'd take a trip down there - historic town and also the first day of the new 2nd XI season.
It rained all the way down on the train - and this didn't bode well. The taxi driver found the ground OK - as attractive as you'd expect of a public-school venue.
In fact, there were two grounds right next door to each other. The pavilion was neat and handsome and when I walked in this building I realised that the tea room was actually upstairs rather than on the ground floor. A nice modern interior with players ambling about.
There was going to be a delay until at least 2.30pm - lunch was going to be taken at 2pm - so I got down to some work and some reading. Cups of tea were on tap - and they were also free, which was great. Only one or two spectators but some historic photos and interesting booklets about Rugby cricket in the tearoom area. Nice pavilion and some very helpful RCC people on duty in the tearoom.
Realised too that Ismail Dawood was one of the umpires. I'd spoken to him during the CK project and it was good to chat to him again. Remarkably, he remembered me and we had an interesting conversation about umpiring, his cricket career and Hanging Heaton - his club. He'd been on the reserve/2nd XI umpires panel for 3/4 years and was hoping for elevation to the full list. Nice guy.
The day's play was eventually called off just before 3pm so I got a taxi back to the train station. The first washout of the season! Stopped off in Birmingham to do some shopping and from there home.
A wet and slightly depressing Bank Holiday Monday.
Into Lancashire
A foray into Lancashire - Littlebrough CC and also Heywood CC. Two significant CLL clubs.
Littlebrough were playing a home friendly. Not much atmosphere and the pavilion was also smaller than I remembered from my previous visit or two. Manchester United were on TV and quite a few punters - all United loyalists, obviously - watching and screaming.
I kept warm inside but also went for a couple of walks round the perimeter of the ground, taking some photos too. A nice ground with some great views out to the Pennine hills.
Littlebrough is the home club of one of my cricketing heroes: leg-spinner Chris Schofield, ex-Lancashire, Surrey and England. No great sign of him - if at all - but he did learn his cricket here. He's very fond of his home club - I know that. People laugh a little when I say 'Schoey' is one of my favourite cricketers but he was/is super-talented and should have gone further in the game.
Then to Heywood. An hour there. It was tea when I arrived and there was a big private birthday party going on in the pavilion. Another friendly - and the ground looked very neat and well appointed.
Heywood is very close to Middleton - where my late grandma used to live, so I got very nostalgic while I was there. All the hills around too - you could feel, and see, it was Pennine country.
Littlebrough were playing a home friendly. Not much atmosphere and the pavilion was also smaller than I remembered from my previous visit or two. Manchester United were on TV and quite a few punters - all United loyalists, obviously - watching and screaming.
I kept warm inside but also went for a couple of walks round the perimeter of the ground, taking some photos too. A nice ground with some great views out to the Pennine hills.
Littlebrough is the home club of one of my cricketing heroes: leg-spinner Chris Schofield, ex-Lancashire, Surrey and England. No great sign of him - if at all - but he did learn his cricket here. He's very fond of his home club - I know that. People laugh a little when I say 'Schoey' is one of my favourite cricketers but he was/is super-talented and should have gone further in the game.
Then to Heywood. An hour there. It was tea when I arrived and there was a big private birthday party going on in the pavilion. Another friendly - and the ground looked very neat and well appointed.
Heywood is very close to Middleton - where my late grandma used to live, so I got very nostalgic while I was there. All the hills around too - you could feel, and see, it was Pennine country.
Sunday 8 April 2012
Bad light frustrates Kent
posted by John Winn
Brightening skies over the Lower Ure Valley persuaded me to head for Leeds after an early lunch, calling first at New Rover who were playing Adle in a forty over friendly.Wickets were pitched just as I arrived and after the traditional promenade I sat in my car and watched the visitors, after an edgy start, reach 42 without loss of 11 overs.
Bereft of any company I decided to head for Headingley where Root and Sayers were making steady progress as Yorkshire followed on after being 'shrecked' this morning. Here there were familiar faces and inside the long room I enjoyed conversations with the two Brians (Senior and Sanderson),and the grandfather and father of Joe Root, Messrs Don and Matt Root respectively. Joe's dismissal for 76, chopping one on off spinner Riley, swung the game in Kent's favour and with Sayers, Gale and Bairstow following in quick succession Yorkshire were 146 for 4 and relieved when for the third time in the match bad light brought the day to an early conclusion and the match result to a draw. Not the start Yorkshire were hoping for but at least five of the top seven batsmen made substantial scores. As for the weather Barbados must seem 4200 miles away, which it is,and apart from after lunch on Thursday conditions have been miserable for both fielders and players. All other six games produced victors and Yorkshire members may have mixed feelings when they read that David Wainwright spun Derbyshire to victory over Northants with six wickets.
Where next for the pcw? Wednesday sees the start of a three day friendly between Durham II and Yorkshire II at Marton. Marton are an up and coming NYSD club based on the outskirts of Middlesbrough. The ground is at the junction of the A172 and A174, and on the bus route from Middlesbrough town centre. For sat navs the postcode is TS7 8JU. I have not visited the ground before but remember running cross country in Stewart Park which is next door. Let's hope it is not necessary to do a lap of the park to keep warm.
On Thursday Durham play their first championship match of the season when Notts visit The Riverside, the Trent Bridge outfit will travel buoyed by the victory over Worcestershire today but for Durham's coach, Geoff Cook, who to leave out will be the problem. How much guidance will he draw from their victory over Durham University today with the students being bowled out for 18?. I note they batted one short, wise man.
The next first team cricket for Yorkshire is against Leeds/Bradford MCCU at Headingley. Seats available in all parts. I have yet to find anybody who thinks the elevation of these matches to first class status is anything but a travesty.
Going back to Yorkshire v Kent it was good to see Mark Davies having a good start for Kent. Injuries and illness had seen him slide from the fringe of test cricket to a position way down the pecking order of fast bowlers at Durham. I was reminded of a match at The Riverside in 2008 when in four completed innings Durham and Kent could only muster 465 runs.Davies took five wickets in each innings and Robert Key's comments about the pitch panel when no points were deducted cost him £1250. Something to chat about as the now team mates make the journey south this evening?
And finally one other important event in the week ahead: Playfair is published on Thursday, what a pity it wasn't available for the opening of the season.
Brightening skies over the Lower Ure Valley persuaded me to head for Leeds after an early lunch, calling first at New Rover who were playing Adle in a forty over friendly.Wickets were pitched just as I arrived and after the traditional promenade I sat in my car and watched the visitors, after an edgy start, reach 42 without loss of 11 overs.
Bereft of any company I decided to head for Headingley where Root and Sayers were making steady progress as Yorkshire followed on after being 'shrecked' this morning. Here there were familiar faces and inside the long room I enjoyed conversations with the two Brians (Senior and Sanderson),and the grandfather and father of Joe Root, Messrs Don and Matt Root respectively. Joe's dismissal for 76, chopping one on off spinner Riley, swung the game in Kent's favour and with Sayers, Gale and Bairstow following in quick succession Yorkshire were 146 for 4 and relieved when for the third time in the match bad light brought the day to an early conclusion and the match result to a draw. Not the start Yorkshire were hoping for but at least five of the top seven batsmen made substantial scores. As for the weather Barbados must seem 4200 miles away, which it is,and apart from after lunch on Thursday conditions have been miserable for both fielders and players. All other six games produced victors and Yorkshire members may have mixed feelings when they read that David Wainwright spun Derbyshire to victory over Northants with six wickets.
Where next for the pcw? Wednesday sees the start of a three day friendly between Durham II and Yorkshire II at Marton. Marton are an up and coming NYSD club based on the outskirts of Middlesbrough. The ground is at the junction of the A172 and A174, and on the bus route from Middlesbrough town centre. For sat navs the postcode is TS7 8JU. I have not visited the ground before but remember running cross country in Stewart Park which is next door. Let's hope it is not necessary to do a lap of the park to keep warm.
On Thursday Durham play their first championship match of the season when Notts visit The Riverside, the Trent Bridge outfit will travel buoyed by the victory over Worcestershire today but for Durham's coach, Geoff Cook, who to leave out will be the problem. How much guidance will he draw from their victory over Durham University today with the students being bowled out for 18?. I note they batted one short, wise man.
The next first team cricket for Yorkshire is against Leeds/Bradford MCCU at Headingley. Seats available in all parts. I have yet to find anybody who thinks the elevation of these matches to first class status is anything but a travesty.
Going back to Yorkshire v Kent it was good to see Mark Davies having a good start for Kent. Injuries and illness had seen him slide from the fringe of test cricket to a position way down the pecking order of fast bowlers at Durham. I was reminded of a match at The Riverside in 2008 when in four completed innings Durham and Kent could only muster 465 runs.Davies took five wickets in each innings and Robert Key's comments about the pitch panel when no points were deducted cost him £1250. Something to chat about as the now team mates make the journey south this evening?
And finally one other important event in the week ahead: Playfair is published on Thursday, what a pity it wasn't available for the opening of the season.
Saturday 7 April 2012
Into Bradford
Posted by Peter Davies
Saturday 7 April
A foray out into the Bradford League – a pre-season friendly between Undercliffe CC’s second and third teams. Thankfully, the weather was okay. Not many spectators in evidence but the tea room was open, there were a few punters in the bar, and also a few spectators knocking about outside.
I was impressed that Undercliffe was only a £5.80 taxi ride away from the city centre – much closer than I thought. There was very much a pre-season feel to this practice match – because that, after all, was what it was.
The club has an interesting history. The league website talks about the club’s early years:
‘Undercliffe Cricket Club have been members of the Bradford League since its inauguration in 1903. A thriving membership has always ensured a good financial base which has helped, particularly in later years with payments to players.
‘…However, there was no great entrance for the club into the league for they finished a modest ninth in the first season. Great Horton were the outstanding side of the decade and were Undercliffe’s bogey team, dismissing them for 27 in 1904.
‘T.E.Wright became the club’s first centurion in 1905, scoring 107 not out against Dudley Hill as they finished fifth in the league and registered an isolated triumph against bogey team Great Horton when they skittled them out for 28. The two sides met in the semi-final of 1906 and Horton won by an imposing 201 runs.
‘Undercliffe won their first league title in 1907 and in 1908 won the Priestley Cup for the first time when they dismissed Shelf for 109 and replied with 111 for three. The cup returned to Intake Road in 1910 when they scored 263 before bowling out Great Horton for 145 to secure a 118-run victory.’
Key personalities in the history of the club include George Gunn – a star of the early twentieth century; Edward Clarke of Northamptonshire in the 1920s; Thomas Alec ‘Sandy’ Jacques, who played for Yorkshire; Vic Wilson, who eventually captained Yorkshire; Jack Wainwright, star of the 1963 championship-winning side; Les Jackson, Alan Ward, David Smith and Ashley Harvey-Walker and Jim Brailsford (all Derbyshire); David Dobson, star of the 1970s; John White, a top pace bowler; and David Bairstow, of Yorkshire and England.
The league website talks about more recent years: ‘The seventies proved to be an outstanding decade for the club as they also lifted Priestley Cup in 1974 and 1975. In 1974 they dismissed Bingley for 127 before cruising to a six-wicket win and the following year they made 234 for nine before defeating Manningham Mills for 138.
‘The eighties started in fine style with another Priestley Cup triumph - this time by 32 runs against East Bierley but there was no more silverware until 1986 when they lifted the league championship. Their side included Simon Kellett, Jerry Mytton, Peter Booth, David Dobson and Howard Reeve who were all regular runscorers while former Leicester paceman Booth took 38 wickets.
‘There were plenty of ups and downs during the 1990s. They were relegated in 1994 and 1999 and on each occasion bounced back by winning the Second Division championship the next season.
‘The biggest highs were winning the First Division championship under the captaincy of Russell Heritage in 1997 and the Yorkshire Champions Cup the following year. Sadly the club was relegated again in 2003.’
Saturday 7 April
A foray out into the Bradford League – a pre-season friendly between Undercliffe CC’s second and third teams. Thankfully, the weather was okay. Not many spectators in evidence but the tea room was open, there were a few punters in the bar, and also a few spectators knocking about outside.
I was impressed that Undercliffe was only a £5.80 taxi ride away from the city centre – much closer than I thought. There was very much a pre-season feel to this practice match – because that, after all, was what it was.
The club has an interesting history. The league website talks about the club’s early years:
‘Undercliffe Cricket Club have been members of the Bradford League since its inauguration in 1903. A thriving membership has always ensured a good financial base which has helped, particularly in later years with payments to players.
‘…However, there was no great entrance for the club into the league for they finished a modest ninth in the first season. Great Horton were the outstanding side of the decade and were Undercliffe’s bogey team, dismissing them for 27 in 1904.
‘T.E.Wright became the club’s first centurion in 1905, scoring 107 not out against Dudley Hill as they finished fifth in the league and registered an isolated triumph against bogey team Great Horton when they skittled them out for 28. The two sides met in the semi-final of 1906 and Horton won by an imposing 201 runs.
‘Undercliffe won their first league title in 1907 and in 1908 won the Priestley Cup for the first time when they dismissed Shelf for 109 and replied with 111 for three. The cup returned to Intake Road in 1910 when they scored 263 before bowling out Great Horton for 145 to secure a 118-run victory.’
Key personalities in the history of the club include George Gunn – a star of the early twentieth century; Edward Clarke of Northamptonshire in the 1920s; Thomas Alec ‘Sandy’ Jacques, who played for Yorkshire; Vic Wilson, who eventually captained Yorkshire; Jack Wainwright, star of the 1963 championship-winning side; Les Jackson, Alan Ward, David Smith and Ashley Harvey-Walker and Jim Brailsford (all Derbyshire); David Dobson, star of the 1970s; John White, a top pace bowler; and David Bairstow, of Yorkshire and England.
The league website talks about more recent years: ‘The seventies proved to be an outstanding decade for the club as they also lifted Priestley Cup in 1974 and 1975. In 1974 they dismissed Bingley for 127 before cruising to a six-wicket win and the following year they made 234 for nine before defeating Manningham Mills for 138.
‘The eighties started in fine style with another Priestley Cup triumph - this time by 32 runs against East Bierley but there was no more silverware until 1986 when they lifted the league championship. Their side included Simon Kellett, Jerry Mytton, Peter Booth, David Dobson and Howard Reeve who were all regular runscorers while former Leicester paceman Booth took 38 wickets.
‘There were plenty of ups and downs during the 1990s. They were relegated in 1994 and 1999 and on each occasion bounced back by winning the Second Division championship the next season.
‘The biggest highs were winning the First Division championship under the captaincy of Russell Heritage in 1997 and the Yorkshire Champions Cup the following year. Sadly the club was relegated again in 2003.’
MIXTURE OF CRICKET
By Brian Sanderson
I decided to watch the finish of the test match in Sri Lanka before going to Headingley.The temperature was 42 degrees in new money.To warm for me but it was good to see England win a Test Match,the first this winter.
Just a comment from yesterday, it was the highest Kent total against Yorkshire in Yorshire.Forecast was dry but dull.As I left the house the rain started to fall but the match started on time .I sat next to Andy from York for the first session.Before a ball was balled I said the first wicket would fall in the second over and Sayers would be caught in the slips.No money was exchanged but it happen.A quote from Andy,s friend was that Mcgrath would be out L.B.W.This came true. A pity that I do not gamble as a Indian book-maker would have lost money.It became very cold and lunch was taken early due to rain.
While having hot beef stew soup I watch the end of innings of the I.P.L.Looked very warm there to.Going back to Headingley I decided to watch the match in the warm Long Room with Ron Deaton and Gale was soon out.Settled back to watch Bairstow and Ballance play some good cricket. Bairstow was lucky when Ben Harmison missed a slip catch.Davies looked the pick of the bowlers and if he could stay fit he will collect a lot of wickets. As tea was approaching Ballance was out L.B.W sweeping in front of his wicket.
Bairstow went on to get his first century at Headingley watched by his brother Andrew.He scored 107 and has been choosed for a Englnd squad.Pyrah had broken his hand and spent all aftrenoon with his wife and two new born children.The match finished early due to bad light with Yorkshire 316 for 6.
Weather forecast for to-morrow is is dry and a bit wamer. We will see to-morrow.
While I was having my tea I watched the test match from Barbados were Australia was bowling.Looked warm there to. Please let us have some warmth.
I decided to watch the finish of the test match in Sri Lanka before going to Headingley.The temperature was 42 degrees in new money.To warm for me but it was good to see England win a Test Match,the first this winter.
Just a comment from yesterday, it was the highest Kent total against Yorkshire in Yorshire.Forecast was dry but dull.As I left the house the rain started to fall but the match started on time .I sat next to Andy from York for the first session.Before a ball was balled I said the first wicket would fall in the second over and Sayers would be caught in the slips.No money was exchanged but it happen.A quote from Andy,s friend was that Mcgrath would be out L.B.W.This came true. A pity that I do not gamble as a Indian book-maker would have lost money.It became very cold and lunch was taken early due to rain.
While having hot beef stew soup I watch the end of innings of the I.P.L.Looked very warm there to.Going back to Headingley I decided to watch the match in the warm Long Room with Ron Deaton and Gale was soon out.Settled back to watch Bairstow and Ballance play some good cricket. Bairstow was lucky when Ben Harmison missed a slip catch.Davies looked the pick of the bowlers and if he could stay fit he will collect a lot of wickets. As tea was approaching Ballance was out L.B.W sweeping in front of his wicket.
Bairstow went on to get his first century at Headingley watched by his brother Andrew.He scored 107 and has been choosed for a Englnd squad.Pyrah had broken his hand and spent all aftrenoon with his wife and two new born children.The match finished early due to bad light with Yorkshire 316 for 6.
Weather forecast for to-morrow is is dry and a bit wamer. We will see to-morrow.
While I was having my tea I watched the test match from Barbados were Australia was bowling.Looked warm there to. Please let us have some warmth.
Coles provides some warmth
posted by John Winn
The idea of 'The man on the Clapham Omnibus' as a measure of reasonableness has long been established in English Law . The man who boarded the Garforth Omnibus close by Headingley on Thursday evening, when Kent had lost only three wickets with under an hour to play,and announced 'I have had enough, I can stand no more', would not I suggest at that time have had more than a minority of followers. It was not clear whether he was referring solely to Thursday's play or had written off the whole season but by about 2:00pm yesterday an exit poll might have revealed growing support for his sentiments. For while it is bad enough seeing recognised batsmen take runs readily from the Yorkshire attack, as happened on the opening day, at least for much of the time it was warm and sunny. Either side of lunch yesterday tailenders Coles and Davies added 153 in 37 overs, just one short of the Headingley ninth wicket stand against a backdrop of dropped catches and chilling temperatures.
Many sought comfort in the long room where Leeds United offered a diversion for some, but they appeared no happier than those watching the cricket. Shortly before three when a Coles six brought him his century, Robert Key declared the Kent innings closed, leaving the two Joes an awkward nine overs to get through before tea. Had a couple of wickets fallen in this spell of play then 'Garforth man' might have increased his following to rival that of George Galloway, but Root and Sayers got through to what proved to be the close of play for the players,due to bad light, did not return after tea.They(Joe and Joe) did so with an ease and style which confirmed what many of us had been thinking, namely that this was a good batting wicket on which anything other than a draw is unlikely.
Tnat only nine wickets should fall in five sessions while 569 runs were scored is in contrast to most of the other championship games in progress round the country. The highest score in any other match is Notts' second innings 355 for 7 (after 20 wickets fell on Thursday)and given reasonable weather the games at The Oval, Trent Bridge, Chelmsford, and Grace Road may not need the fourth day.I shall not be at Headingley today and as I write outside it is cloudy and dull. The forecast suggests that it is unlikely to change much for the rest of the day. Too early for cricket? Ah but you should have been here last week.
The idea of 'The man on the Clapham Omnibus' as a measure of reasonableness has long been established in English Law . The man who boarded the Garforth Omnibus close by Headingley on Thursday evening, when Kent had lost only three wickets with under an hour to play,and announced 'I have had enough, I can stand no more', would not I suggest at that time have had more than a minority of followers. It was not clear whether he was referring solely to Thursday's play or had written off the whole season but by about 2:00pm yesterday an exit poll might have revealed growing support for his sentiments. For while it is bad enough seeing recognised batsmen take runs readily from the Yorkshire attack, as happened on the opening day, at least for much of the time it was warm and sunny. Either side of lunch yesterday tailenders Coles and Davies added 153 in 37 overs, just one short of the Headingley ninth wicket stand against a backdrop of dropped catches and chilling temperatures.
Many sought comfort in the long room where Leeds United offered a diversion for some, but they appeared no happier than those watching the cricket. Shortly before three when a Coles six brought him his century, Robert Key declared the Kent innings closed, leaving the two Joes an awkward nine overs to get through before tea. Had a couple of wickets fallen in this spell of play then 'Garforth man' might have increased his following to rival that of George Galloway, but Root and Sayers got through to what proved to be the close of play for the players,due to bad light, did not return after tea.They(Joe and Joe) did so with an ease and style which confirmed what many of us had been thinking, namely that this was a good batting wicket on which anything other than a draw is unlikely.
Tnat only nine wickets should fall in five sessions while 569 runs were scored is in contrast to most of the other championship games in progress round the country. The highest score in any other match is Notts' second innings 355 for 7 (after 20 wickets fell on Thursday)and given reasonable weather the games at The Oval, Trent Bridge, Chelmsford, and Grace Road may not need the fourth day.I shall not be at Headingley today and as I write outside it is cloudy and dull. The forecast suggests that it is unlikely to change much for the rest of the day. Too early for cricket? Ah but you should have been here last week.
Friday 6 April 2012
Bumping into Folk
Posted by Peter Davies
Friday 6 April
Headingley
Day 2 at Headingley. A good night in the hotel and another early-morning wander into Headingley village. But I'd forgotten it was a Bank Holiday and the library was shut. Blast!
So back to Headingley, a quick lie down, and then a cup of tea in the Long Room before play started. Bumped into book dealer William Roberts, PCW Brian Senior and John Wynn again. Good chats with all three. Bought some excellent cricket books off William the day before - so thought I'd save my money this time!
Kent started off well again - they look as if they're going to get a big total. Then bumped into Peter Dibb, a legendary Huddersfield League cricketer - 9/10 clubs and about 50 years worth of service all told. Nice chap too. We're writing a book together too - on his time in local cricket. Should be good.
I had to leave the ground at 11.30, to get my taxi and head back to Huddersfield because I had an appointment at Stalybridge train station. I'm 'ghostwriting' the autobiography of umpire John Holder and we were meeting to discuss one of the book chapters. Very nice chap and I'm looking forward to the book project.
Friday 6 April
Headingley
Day 2 at Headingley. A good night in the hotel and another early-morning wander into Headingley village. But I'd forgotten it was a Bank Holiday and the library was shut. Blast!
So back to Headingley, a quick lie down, and then a cup of tea in the Long Room before play started. Bumped into book dealer William Roberts, PCW Brian Senior and John Wynn again. Good chats with all three. Bought some excellent cricket books off William the day before - so thought I'd save my money this time!
Kent started off well again - they look as if they're going to get a big total. Then bumped into Peter Dibb, a legendary Huddersfield League cricketer - 9/10 clubs and about 50 years worth of service all told. Nice chap too. We're writing a book together too - on his time in local cricket. Should be good.
I had to leave the ground at 11.30, to get my taxi and head back to Huddersfield because I had an appointment at Stalybridge train station. I'm 'ghostwriting' the autobiography of umpire John Holder and we were meeting to discuss one of the book chapters. Very nice chap and I'm looking forward to the book project.
Great to be Back
Thursday 5 April
Posted by Peter Davies
Headingley
Snow round and about but the first day of the new first-class season was perfect - bright and beautiful in lots of ways. Kent were the visitors and Yorkshire were determined to get off on the right foot. Massive expectations on them re. returning to the top division.
I had stayed over the night before in the Headingley Lodge hotel and I've got to say I was mightily impressed. I'd stayed before at the Old Trafford Lodge hotel, and visited my dad when he was staying at the Headingley hotel, but this was my first overnight stay in Leeds.
Really very impressive. Spacious rooms - every one with a view of the pitch - and £55 I thought was extremely reasonable. So you could lie on your bed and watch the game - a real treat.
Yorkshire got off to a poorish start, unable to take a wicket before lunch. Rob Key and Scott Newman looked very solid at the top of the Kent order and they built the foundations for a big total. Yorkshire picked up some wickets late on but they had the worse of the day.
I bumped into fellow blogger John Wynn and we had a good chat about cricket in York and other associated matters. We're planning a cricket-watching day in York soon. Also bumped into Gerald from Gomersal and a few others. Great to be back.
So nice to be in the hotel and to be able to pop into my room whenever I wanted. Perfect. Heaven in fact. Late on I felt ill and went back to my room for a sleep - again, perfect.
Before the start of play I had wandered into Headingley village and visited the local library to check my emails. Like the village a lot. Also had a cup of tea and bought some books in the Oxfam bookshop.
The season has started and it's a great feeling.
Posted by Peter Davies
Headingley
Snow round and about but the first day of the new first-class season was perfect - bright and beautiful in lots of ways. Kent were the visitors and Yorkshire were determined to get off on the right foot. Massive expectations on them re. returning to the top division.
I had stayed over the night before in the Headingley Lodge hotel and I've got to say I was mightily impressed. I'd stayed before at the Old Trafford Lodge hotel, and visited my dad when he was staying at the Headingley hotel, but this was my first overnight stay in Leeds.
Really very impressive. Spacious rooms - every one with a view of the pitch - and £55 I thought was extremely reasonable. So you could lie on your bed and watch the game - a real treat.
Yorkshire got off to a poorish start, unable to take a wicket before lunch. Rob Key and Scott Newman looked very solid at the top of the Kent order and they built the foundations for a big total. Yorkshire picked up some wickets late on but they had the worse of the day.
I bumped into fellow blogger John Wynn and we had a good chat about cricket in York and other associated matters. We're planning a cricket-watching day in York soon. Also bumped into Gerald from Gomersal and a few others. Great to be back.
So nice to be in the hotel and to be able to pop into my room whenever I wanted. Perfect. Heaven in fact. Late on I felt ill and went back to my room for a sleep - again, perfect.
Before the start of play I had wandered into Headingley village and visited the local library to check my emails. Like the village a lot. Also had a cup of tea and bought some books in the Oxfam bookshop.
The season has started and it's a great feeling.
Thursday 5 April 2012
WHAT DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES.
By Brian Sanderson,
Wednesday in Headingley was covered in snow until about 1.30 P.M and the ground had been covered with snow,
Woke up this morning with the sunshining through the window. After a call from Sheffield to see if the match would start on time, I walked to the ground.It is always special is the first day of the Championship and a chance to see old friends.Talk is about what had happen during the winter and prospects for the coming summer.
I meet Brian Workman and his son for their first day as Yorkshire members. Brian has recently retired and was looking forward to watching Rob Key batting, Kent won the toss and batted so Brian had his wish. We sat in the sunshine to watch Key and Newman batted until lunch-time.Yorkshire bowling did not look threating.
After lunch I sat awhile with John Winn discussing the coming fixtures. As I moved seats Sidebottom bowled Newman so the trick worked.Key progressed easily until he reached 97 before trying a risky single and was run out. Brian had to take his son to cricket practice so missed Rashid wicket just before tea.
The sun was still shining and joined Brian Senior in the Trueman enclosure and delivered Peter Mann birthday card to him. Watched two more wickets fall and walked home for dinner.
Weather forecast is cloudy with a chance of rain so Yorkshire cricket prospects for this match is also dull.We shall see.
Wednesday in Headingley was covered in snow until about 1.30 P.M and the ground had been covered with snow,
Woke up this morning with the sunshining through the window. After a call from Sheffield to see if the match would start on time, I walked to the ground.It is always special is the first day of the Championship and a chance to see old friends.Talk is about what had happen during the winter and prospects for the coming summer.
I meet Brian Workman and his son for their first day as Yorkshire members. Brian has recently retired and was looking forward to watching Rob Key batting, Kent won the toss and batted so Brian had his wish. We sat in the sunshine to watch Key and Newman batted until lunch-time.Yorkshire bowling did not look threating.
After lunch I sat awhile with John Winn discussing the coming fixtures. As I moved seats Sidebottom bowled Newman so the trick worked.Key progressed easily until he reached 97 before trying a risky single and was run out. Brian had to take his son to cricket practice so missed Rashid wicket just before tea.
The sun was still shining and joined Brian Senior in the Trueman enclosure and delivered Peter Mann birthday card to him. Watched two more wickets fall and walked home for dinner.
Weather forecast is cloudy with a chance of rain so Yorkshire cricket prospects for this match is also dull.We shall see.
Wednesday 4 April 2012
A frosty welcome?
posted by John winn
Waking up in The Lake District this morning to a light covering of snow, the same Lake District where we had seen bluebells, wild garlic and lady's smock in flower on Monday, my wife and I were concerned to hear that the major routes across The Pennines were closed. It was a great relief therefore when Radio Cumbria announced as we reached Penrith that the A66 between Brough and Bowes was open to traffic. I could do without these kind of alarms at the best of times but that such conditions should prevail the day before the 2012 County Championship begins at Headingley with Yorkshire facing Men of Kent and Kentish Men together with some who can claim neither of these distinctions,was not part of the script I have been writing since the fixtures were published in November.
How many of us, as we enjoyed last week's record temperatures, just had a niggling thought that there would be a price to pay? Traffic chaos, power cuts and snow on the outfield at HQ are enough to make the most optimistic think that April 5th is better suited to the end of the tax year than the beginning of the cricket season. I was put in mind of the 1999 season, when on April 13th , described by The Guardian as a 'preposterously early start to the season', Durham lost the first day of their match with Worcestershire to snow and an iconic photograph of David Boon juggling two snowballs was turned into a Christmas card.
In contrast Yorkshire began the 1912 season with a match against MCC at Lords on May 6th and their first home match in the championship, against Hampshire at Bramall Lane, was not until May 13th and only rain which prevented any play on the third (and final) day saved the visitors from defeat. One hundred years and three days later, on May 16th 2012,Yorkshire will again face Hampshire, this time at Headingley,with 25% of their championship matches already completed. Let's hope by then Gale's men have laid down a clear intention to return to the top division.
The YCCC shop is offering double discount to members tomorrow, it is not known whether stocks include thermal underwear but it might not be a bad idea.
Waking up in The Lake District this morning to a light covering of snow, the same Lake District where we had seen bluebells, wild garlic and lady's smock in flower on Monday, my wife and I were concerned to hear that the major routes across The Pennines were closed. It was a great relief therefore when Radio Cumbria announced as we reached Penrith that the A66 between Brough and Bowes was open to traffic. I could do without these kind of alarms at the best of times but that such conditions should prevail the day before the 2012 County Championship begins at Headingley with Yorkshire facing Men of Kent and Kentish Men together with some who can claim neither of these distinctions,was not part of the script I have been writing since the fixtures were published in November.
How many of us, as we enjoyed last week's record temperatures, just had a niggling thought that there would be a price to pay? Traffic chaos, power cuts and snow on the outfield at HQ are enough to make the most optimistic think that April 5th is better suited to the end of the tax year than the beginning of the cricket season. I was put in mind of the 1999 season, when on April 13th , described by The Guardian as a 'preposterously early start to the season', Durham lost the first day of their match with Worcestershire to snow and an iconic photograph of David Boon juggling two snowballs was turned into a Christmas card.
In contrast Yorkshire began the 1912 season with a match against MCC at Lords on May 6th and their first home match in the championship, against Hampshire at Bramall Lane, was not until May 13th and only rain which prevented any play on the third (and final) day saved the visitors from defeat. One hundred years and three days later, on May 16th 2012,Yorkshire will again face Hampshire, this time at Headingley,with 25% of their championship matches already completed. Let's hope by then Gale's men have laid down a clear intention to return to the top division.
The YCCC shop is offering double discount to members tomorrow, it is not known whether stocks include thermal underwear but it might not be a bad idea.
Eve of Season
Wednesday 4th April
Posted by Peter Davies
Headingley
The start-of-term dinner at Headingley, attended by all the YCCC players and many supporters and members. A very good occasion - and I'm saying that as a Lancastrian!
Ryan Sidebottom and a young second-teamer were sitting on our table and during the dinner I grabbed a word with Oliver Hannon-Dalby (wow, is he tall?! He'll write a foreword to the soon-to-be-published history of the Halifax Cricket League)& new v-c J Sayers(rather swarve-looking close up).
The meal was nice - soup, meat and veg, then fruit - and the speeches/interviews which followed were quite illuminating. The MC spoke with new coach Jason Gillespie (he's a good egg), Martyn Moxon (nice guy) and then Andrew Gale (with a new haircut). All good stuff - there seems to be a genuine feeling of optimism ahead of the new season.
The event took place in the Long Room - and it was easy to get excited with the lush green of the Headingley turf looking good in the background.
I'm staying overnight at the Headingley cricket hotel - a really impressive place and I can't wait to get up in the morning and see the lush turf over breakfast! Let the new season roll on...
Posted by Peter Davies
Headingley
The start-of-term dinner at Headingley, attended by all the YCCC players and many supporters and members. A very good occasion - and I'm saying that as a Lancastrian!
Ryan Sidebottom and a young second-teamer were sitting on our table and during the dinner I grabbed a word with Oliver Hannon-Dalby (wow, is he tall?! He'll write a foreword to the soon-to-be-published history of the Halifax Cricket League)& new v-c J Sayers(rather swarve-looking close up).
The meal was nice - soup, meat and veg, then fruit - and the speeches/interviews which followed were quite illuminating. The MC spoke with new coach Jason Gillespie (he's a good egg), Martyn Moxon (nice guy) and then Andrew Gale (with a new haircut). All good stuff - there seems to be a genuine feeling of optimism ahead of the new season.
The event took place in the Long Room - and it was easy to get excited with the lush green of the Headingley turf looking good in the background.
I'm staying overnight at the Headingley cricket hotel - a really impressive place and I can't wait to get up in the morning and see the lush turf over breakfast! Let the new season roll on...
8th Pennine Cricket History Conference
Saturday 31 March
Posted by Peter Davies
The 8th Pennine Cricket History conference - and what a day! Really super. Contributions on cricket in Oldham, Huddersfield cricket, the Lancashire League, Cleckheaton St. John's CC, and cricket broadcasting. Truly excellent. Really good to see so many friends and cricket folk in attendance, with lots of tea, coffee and sandwiches consumed too. Next year will be the 9th conference and the year after that the 10th. Get ready for fireworks then!
Posted by Peter Davies
The 8th Pennine Cricket History conference - and what a day! Really super. Contributions on cricket in Oldham, Huddersfield cricket, the Lancashire League, Cleckheaton St. John's CC, and cricket broadcasting. Truly excellent. Really good to see so many friends and cricket folk in attendance, with lots of tea, coffee and sandwiches consumed too. Next year will be the 9th conference and the year after that the 10th. Get ready for fireworks then!
Tuesday 3 April 2012
Champing at the Bit
Sunday 1 April
Posted by Peter Davies
Trent Bridge
At last! The new season. This year I have been champing at the bit for the new season to start. I was getting very impatient indeed. Nottingham on a sunny spring day was a fine place to start - my first visit to Trent Bridge in quite a while.
In fact, the place has come on leaps and bounds and many PCWs now rate it as one of the foremost grounds in the country - behind only Lord's and The Oval. And it is easy to see why: good facilities, gleaming stands, and a modern general feel.
I arrived just after 11, with the Loughborough MCCU in the field. Notts made good progress and, staggeringly, had 200+ on the board by lunch. Lots of nice strokeplay in evidence but it could be a long, hard summer for the students.
I have invested in a Notts season ticket this summer (country member) and this enabled me to sit in the pavilion on a generally quiet day.
I visited the club shop and bought some books, then had a cup of tea in the (quite empty) pavilion. Then a wander round the pavilion and a cool drink. Also went upstairs in the pavilion and ended up in a very nice bar area overlooking the pitch which seemed to be out of bounds to me, even though I was a member. Weird.
Notts kept on piling on the runs and then I had to go for my train.
Got a taxi to the train station. A pleasant afternoon. The season has started!
Posted by Peter Davies
Trent Bridge
At last! The new season. This year I have been champing at the bit for the new season to start. I was getting very impatient indeed. Nottingham on a sunny spring day was a fine place to start - my first visit to Trent Bridge in quite a while.
In fact, the place has come on leaps and bounds and many PCWs now rate it as one of the foremost grounds in the country - behind only Lord's and The Oval. And it is easy to see why: good facilities, gleaming stands, and a modern general feel.
I arrived just after 11, with the Loughborough MCCU in the field. Notts made good progress and, staggeringly, had 200+ on the board by lunch. Lots of nice strokeplay in evidence but it could be a long, hard summer for the students.
I have invested in a Notts season ticket this summer (country member) and this enabled me to sit in the pavilion on a generally quiet day.
I visited the club shop and bought some books, then had a cup of tea in the (quite empty) pavilion. Then a wander round the pavilion and a cool drink. Also went upstairs in the pavilion and ended up in a very nice bar area overlooking the pitch which seemed to be out of bounds to me, even though I was a member. Weird.
Notts kept on piling on the runs and then I had to go for my train.
Got a taxi to the train station. A pleasant afternoon. The season has started!
FIXTURES FOR APRIL
By Brian Sanderson,
Because Brian Cobb is always wenting to now some local fixtures, I now enclose the following for this month;
5th Headingley four days Kent
7th New Rover v Olicanians 1.PM
8 th New Rover v Adel 1.30 P.M
11 th Durham Seconds v Yorshire Marton.
13th Leeds and Bradford v Yorkshire Headingley three day match.
14 th Pudsey St. Lawrence v Townvlle 12.00P.M.
New Rover v Wakefield Thornes 1.00P.M
Lightcliffe v Leeds U.CC.E 12.30 P.M
Hartshead Moor v Lightcliffe Seconds
Liverpool Conference League starts.
15 th New Rover v St. Chads 1.00P.M
Woodlands v Wrenthorpe 12.00 P.M
16 th Yorkshire U17 V Durham U17 New Rover.
17 th Leicester Seconds v Glamorgan Ratcliffe College
19th Headingley Essex Four day match
21 Most Leagues start
22 th Northumberland v Cheshire South Nothumberland Three day match.
23 Leeds and Bradford v Cardiff Weetwood Three day match
24 Yorkshire Seconds v Leicestershire Harrogae Three day match.
Lancashire Seconds v Derbyshire Middlewich
25Lancashire Seconds v Derbyshire Glossop.
29 Cumberland v Northumberland Penrith three day match
Leeds and Bradford 20/20 Weetwood.
The facts are correct with my diary but always check as matches as haveb een to be moved venues and dates.
Because Brian Cobb is always wenting to now some local fixtures, I now enclose the following for this month;
5th Headingley four days Kent
7th New Rover v Olicanians 1.PM
8 th New Rover v Adel 1.30 P.M
11 th Durham Seconds v Yorshire Marton.
13th Leeds and Bradford v Yorkshire Headingley three day match.
14 th Pudsey St. Lawrence v Townvlle 12.00P.M.
New Rover v Wakefield Thornes 1.00P.M
Lightcliffe v Leeds U.CC.E 12.30 P.M
Hartshead Moor v Lightcliffe Seconds
Liverpool Conference League starts.
15 th New Rover v St. Chads 1.00P.M
Woodlands v Wrenthorpe 12.00 P.M
16 th Yorkshire U17 V Durham U17 New Rover.
17 th Leicester Seconds v Glamorgan Ratcliffe College
19th Headingley Essex Four day match
21 Most Leagues start
22 th Northumberland v Cheshire South Nothumberland Three day match.
23 Leeds and Bradford v Cardiff Weetwood Three day match
24 Yorkshire Seconds v Leicestershire Harrogae Three day match.
Lancashire Seconds v Derbyshire Middlewich
25Lancashire Seconds v Derbyshire Glossop.
29 Cumberland v Northumberland Penrith three day match
Leeds and Bradford 20/20 Weetwood.
The facts are correct with my diary but always check as matches as haveb een to be moved venues and dates.
Sunday 1 April 2012
See you on Thursday
posted by John Winn
Off to The Lake District for a few days (back in time for Headingley on Thursday of course), but just time to say thank you to those who organised and those who spoke at yesterday's conference at Huddersfield. What a marvellously entertaining and wide ranging set of presentations we heard: with no charge for entry or the light refreshments it had to be the best ticket in town.
Peter Hutton set us off a journey round the world and the other speakers continued the travelling theme with visits to Cleckheaton, Cape Town, Central Lancashire, South Shields and many other places where cricket is played. Throw in a little dash of cricket poetry and an opportunity to meet old friends, all anticipating the new season, how many times did I hear the words 'See you on Thursday', and the day was perfect.
Thank you again to all concerned, see you on Thursday.
Off to The Lake District for a few days (back in time for Headingley on Thursday of course), but just time to say thank you to those who organised and those who spoke at yesterday's conference at Huddersfield. What a marvellously entertaining and wide ranging set of presentations we heard: with no charge for entry or the light refreshments it had to be the best ticket in town.
Peter Hutton set us off a journey round the world and the other speakers continued the travelling theme with visits to Cleckheaton, Cape Town, Central Lancashire, South Shields and many other places where cricket is played. Throw in a little dash of cricket poetry and an opportunity to meet old friends, all anticipating the new season, how many times did I hear the words 'See you on Thursday', and the day was perfect.
Thank you again to all concerned, see you on Thursday.
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