1999 saw a number of senior players at the Club return to their best form and others fulfil their promise. Bob Girdwood had an outstanding season and thoroughly deserved the Bowling Award, while Nick Goacher proved without a doubt what a quality he too can be. I don't think that anyone would argue that it was no coincidence that while we were bowling and playing so well there was a certain noisy fellow with gloves on behind the stumps confirming what a high quality wicket keeper he is. Steve Bradford had another fine all-round season and should make the most of the Batting Award because I want it back and I don't care how often I have to run him out to get it! Martin Miles proved invaluable in the middle order, rescuing the innings on more than one occasion. A mention should also go to Simon Leather who although found it difficult to find an early order spot on a Saturday took every opportunity on Sundays and scored consistently.

I would like to finish my review of the 1999 season by thanking the many people involved at the club who helped in a variety of ways towards providing the fine facilities which we are so fortunate to have the use of to enjoy our cricket. Particular thanks go to John Mountain, Edward Jarvis, Steve Morris and the rest of the ground Committee for maintaining the ground at it's excellent standard, to Steve McCall for his umpiring services, to all the ladies who catered for teas and to Iain Davies for all his work in designing our very own website - it's well worth a visit!

Looking ahead, this season could see us brought hack to earth with a bang and we would do well to bear that in mind. Although we have enjoyed a successful season and become a far more professional outfit we still have a long way to go - we must not waste what we achieved last season. This season, as with last, there will be strong competition for 1st XI places and Sunday fixtures will continue to give opportunities to fringe 1st Xl players and youngsters.

This year we have acquired the services of an overseas player to assist in coaching the youngsters - a vital ingredient to provide 'home grown' players for our future. He will also hopefully provide extra penetration in our bowling attack that we are lacking at the moment. Thankfully this season will see us playing more competitive cricket than in recent years, with the addition of the Northern sides who will he looking to give us 'Southern Softies' a hard time. I am also looking forward to batting 'forever' with half the games being 55 overs.

I would like to wish Steve McCall & Brent Day every success with the new 3rd XI. This is a great step forward for the club in continuing to provide its own players for the future. This also gives the opportunity for even more people to play at the club. I sincerely hope all members (playing & social) will give them as much backing as possible.

With new challenges ahead for all three teams this promises to be a great year for Sleaford Cricket Club hut success will depend on the continued support and hard work of both playing and social members all pulling in the same direction.