The Newly Formed 3rd XI Report

Firstly, I would like to say hello to all playing members. The start of the Millennium heralds a new and exciting stage in the development and history of the Sleaford CC. You will have already read about the formation of the new Lincolnshire Premier League. We will, undoubtedly, see a significant advancement in playing standards and conditions across the board. Therefore, to ensure our continued success, the club has to rise to meet these new challenges. Our future and viability will become ever-more dependent on our ability to maintain a large and solid player base. This can only be achieved by offering regular, quality cricket, at every level, to all who so desire it. Moreover, we need to ensure that the products of our excellent youth policy have the opportunity to experience competitive, multi-over cricket at the earliest possible stage. Thus, it has been decided to form a Third Eleven to cater for these requirements.

I am absolutely delighted to be given the honour of Captaining this new side, particularly as I am a relative newcomer to the Club. Obviously, to succeed, this new venture requires an "all hands to the pump" level of support from every club member. In particular, we are looking at the younger element of the club to form the basis of this team. The intention for the Third Eleven is to blend a mixture of youth and experience; the emphasis will he to ensure involvement and enjoyment for all who turn out whilst, at the same time, retaining the correct level of competitiveness. Competing in the South Lincs & Border League Div Ill will guarantee us good cricket. Three of our home matches will be played at Sleaford, however, for the remainder of our home fixtures we have secured the use of the excellent amenities at RAFC Cranwell. This arrangement will provide us with a first-rate venue and will certainly help to strengthen our links with the RAF station. Clearly, we are extremely grateful to the Station Commander for extending this support to our club.

So, after a somewhat lengthy pre-amble, how do I see the forthcoming season developing? My over-riding priority is to ensure that we fulfil all fixtures. Sleaford CC has a long and proud history of honouring its commitments and I am determined to maintain this enviable record. On the field, the watchword will be encouragement; I will look to the more experienced players to develop the potential of the younger element and lead by example. In particular, I want the youngsters to development the good habits of cricket, both the art and etiquette of the game, as well as gaining a real sense of pride in being members of Sleaford CC. If we can achieve this, then enjoyment and team spirit will result - in turn, this will bring its own success. In the long term, the real success of introducing a Third Eleven will become evident, when those who are our youths of today are our First Elevens of tomorrow.

Brent Day
3rd XI Captain

PS. For the more mature, and I include myself, we aim to host at least one Veterans game during the forthcoming season. To date, full details are not to hand; however, these will be issued as soon as possible. Once again, we will he looking for those who qualify, age-wise, to give full support to this venture to ensure its success. Aches, pains, and signs of good living (in the waist area) notwithstanding, anyone who has the desire to put themselves forward should contact James Brown -you will undoubtedly see him at the bar!

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