Cleeve Cricket Club

Captain's Report

Cleeve`s 60th year

Played 12, won 11, lost 1

When I reflect on the statistics I find myself lost for words. We have had a fairytale season when we look at the results. It is truly amazing when you look at what a few good habits and the belief that we can win it can do to the team. I do feel proud to have been part of the 2008 team. Everybody chipped in when it was needed, showing character and team spirit.

I want to thank a few people starting with the committee. They have backed my ideas and supported me throughout the season. I want give a special mention to Rob who has been there for me, giving me advice, and even just to hear my complaints and moans. I also want to thank Chris for the support and patience, even when I take his players for my team. He has been very understanding and I want to thank him for that as I do not believe we would have had the stats, if I did not get the support from him that he has given me. Thank you very much to the handful of tea ladies that have helped me out this season, special mention to Laura and Val Parsons who have done more than their fair share, and also Debbie Hance. Cleeve has got a reputation as having the best tea’s in the league, thank you for that.

Last but not least the players. We all play the game because we love it. It is a big commitment however, and I want to thank all for making that commitment this year. The unsung heroes have been the players coming in to help out when we fell short in the 1st team; James Ball, James Cole, Mitch Want, Joe Barnsley and co, thank you guys you have done well. I threw you into the deep end and your lively spirit has lifted the team when needed. Team selection wasn’t always easy. My theory has been all season to pick the best team and not always the best individuals on paper. Fortunately it worked for me and I want to thank the team for playing along. A special mention to Ian Mitchell, you have batted from 4 to 11 for me, and I thank you for the understanding that you have shown and the hunger to play in the 1st team even though you are a 108 years old.

I can not mention everybody, but would like to say good going to a couple of guys. Firstly to Mike Haswell for his tremendous batting performance throughout the season, it is a pleasure to bat with you sir. Andy Burrell, you might think you are too old, but I would like to say that your steadiness at the top of the order has given us the platform needed during the season, especially with my silly plan for the year to put the pressure on the batting rather the bowling. CJ, good knock against the mighty Spearman XI and also YMCA. To the bowlers, John Parsons as always, you have been the main man with those lollipops you get wickets with, John Hance has been a great support and also James Haswell, who has got better and better throughout the season.

Again thank you all for the season, you have done very well. I am very optimistic for next year. I feel that if the people attend training and show a bit more commitment next year, there is no reason that Cleeve can not be promoted again.... It is not far fetched at all.

Thanks to everyone,

Robbie.