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Saturday, 12 April 2014

Captain's Blog

A Welcome to Season 2014

After one of the wettest winters on record, the start of our new season is nearly upon us. There must have been times when, like me, you all looked to the heavens and thought “No more please!” (Jamie more than most!) Luckily, here in the South Downs, we are blessed with a certain amount of hilly relief and, of course, a bed rock of chalk which has made drainage excellent. I suspect that Somerset cricket tours must be doubtful!!!

The downpours of the past weeks may have dampened the euphoria of our magnificent efforts last season that saw us defeat the local neighbours twice and finish second to Mayfield in the league. On the back of this you may all be aware that we have been promoted to Division 9 for this season. This two-division jump is a wonderful opportunity for us to play and enjoy a better standard of cricket this season. To that end, it is vital that all playing members who can get to the indoor nets should take the opportunity to do so. Practice makes perfect etc. I see no reason to concern ourselves with any of the sides in Division 9: we already know all about Mayfield and Bexhill, and having won 3 out of the 4 games with them, we should be backing our ability to repeat this. We need to carry on where we left off last season with a winning mentality. Feed off the euphoria of last season!!

There is the possibility that one or two of our previous players may be re-joining us – Paul Thompson and Ian Reynolds. I am sure you will welcome any new players to the fold. If you are aware of anybody looking for a game, please obtain their contact details and pass them on to either myself or a committee member. 

I would like to thank Andy Pearson for the work and support he gave me last season, and wish him all the best for the future. Craig Ramsden steps up to the vice-captaincy. This is a great move for the club, as we need to see young blood taking on more responsibility. Craig has proved over the last few seasons that he has matured into a good, competitive player who is learning the finer aspects of the game quickly. I am sure that, with your backing and support, Craig will be an effective replacement for Andy.

Last season proved to me that as a club we still have a tremendous team spirit and ethic that others are still seeking. If we maintain the same attitude and level of commitment as last year, we will survive as a club, and, who knows, may end up with a further promotion.

For your information, the league matches commence on the 10th May at home to Bexhill. We then travel to Mayfield followed by a trip to Barcombe (Lewes) and entertain Forest Row (East Grinstead) on the 31st of May.

I am looking forward to catching up with you all soon, and wish all of you a very successful season.

Millers.

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