1st XI Captain Jaime Waring writes…

“Nearly 2 months into the season and its been an up and down couple of months it’s fair to say. May is, and was, notoriously difficult with availability. The university lads who are such stalwarts of our sides have not been around and some people simply don’t unpack their kit and get in cricket mode until July! This has made get two sides out very difficult.

On the pitch we’ve therefore had mixed fortunes. The 2nds have had a tough start to life in the Stroud Premier League and a few heads are down because of this. Let’s not forget that due to the league restructuring, we took a two league promotion and it was never going to be easy.  Had availability been more consistent, I believe we could have fielded a better 2s side that would be much more competitive…

The 1st XI have done well so far, played 6 and won 4. The opening day Langford defeat was demoralising to say the least, but we’ve bounced back well with good wins vs Corse & Staunton, St Stephens and more recently two 8 wicket wins in a row. A big plus has been the hundreds scored at home from Alex Waring and Jon Ablett, both helping to secure the above victories. Newcomer Rhys Hoy has also made an impact with the ball, 7 wickets in his first three games – well done lads!

For those that have played at Minch this year, I think we’ll all agree the ground & wicket is looking much better and most importantly playing better. Myself and groundsman Mike have found preparation a lot easier, a combination of Erics pre-season work and the new covers really starting to help. It’s early days but the end of season work will improve the pitch every year now. The sightscreens, new net and covers really give the feel of a proper cricket ground up at Minch now – it’s great to see!

As we move into July, please remember to give responses to Dave and the captains as soon as you can. Everyone is busy and if you can’t play we still need to know this, rather than some people who simply don’t reply! A lot goes in to getting two sides out, your help with quick replies is the least we ask for.”

Thanks

Jaime