Cricket News March 2023

The season began, and we shared updates to kick off a fantastic summer of cricket in Whitefield.

Junior cricket

The final indoor nets session for our junior section took place on Sunday, 2 April. Outdoor junior training began on Friday, 14 April, running from 6:15 PM to approximately 7:30 PM, depending on daylight. Our Eagles returned to action during this time.

We also sought volunteers to assist on Friday evenings with roles in coaching and gatekeeping. If interested in helping, we encourage emailing juniors@stand.co.uk. Recruitment efforts continued to strengthen our U18s team by inviting players aged 14-17 to join.

Pre-season preparation

Our first clean-up day occurred on Saturday, 1 April, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. With the 1st team season starting early, there was limited time to prepare the ground.

Tasks included painting, digging, litter picking, cleaning and reattaching covers. Volunteers dressed for the occasion and supported these essential preparations.

Cricket and membership news

Membership fees remained frozen at £60 for the year and were due for all categories – playing, social and junior. Members received club bar cards with 10% discounts on drinks. Payments could be made online or at the bar.

The decision was made not to appoint a professional player this season. Chris assumed the 1st XI captaincy while continuing as a player. The 1st team was strengthened by new additions: Andy McGuinness, Alex Menzhausen and James Deeley. Dylan also returned as our Overseas player for 2023.

All players, seniors and juniors, were required to complete their Crick HQ registration. The cost was £10 for seniors and free for juniors. Read our Crick HQ Registration Guide for details.

Fixtures and fees

The 1st team played a pre-season friendly against Wythenshawe CC at Stand on 8 April, weather permitting. Their season began on 15 April at home against Astley and Tyldesley CC.

The 2nd XI started their season on 22 April, hosting Edgworth 2nd XI. The 3rd XI followed with a match against Golborne CC 3rd XI on 23 April.

Match fees increased for the first time in over a decade. Adults paid £8 per game, while juniors and students paid £5. This adjustment covered a 40% rise in umpire fees and the mandatory provision of teas for 1st team matches. The Committee extended teas to all Senior teams, balancing tradition with cost implications.

We are always on the lookout for any new scorers. If you have any potential candidates please get in touch.

Club regeneration

Significant upgrades were completed at the club. A new 28-digit digital scoreboard was installed and four new sight screens were delivered. A new bar was fitted, transforming the space.

The club interior underwent decoration, enhancing its appeal. Work on new changing rooms progressed, with updates promised as developments unfolded. The existing changing room facilities were also improved.

And finally…

Fundraising activities supported the cricket section, and members were encouraged to contribute or volunteer. Key initiatives included:

• EPL LMS: A long-running fundraiser led by Ste at £10 per participant. Friends and family were welcome.
• Fantasy cricket: Managed by Adam for 2023, with details shared soon.
• Race night: Date to be confirmed.
• Football cards: Available as usual.
• 100 club: Monthly entries at £5 each, with a £100 top prize. Members could contact Wilky for numbers.
• Ball sponsorship: Matches (1st and 2nd XI) could be sponsored for £25. Members reached out to the cricket committee or Paul Grogan to arrange sponsorship.

The club welcome additional fundraising ideas and volunteers to organise events. We look forward to seeing you all soon!