Bloxwich CC 3rd XI 2006  – Captains Report

     Paul Bradley 3rd XI Captain 2006

Let me start by saying what a pleasure it has been to play and captain a great
bunch of lads and lasses (Chez I didn’t forget) this season.

I must admit that the constant concern over players availability , satisfying
the needs of the seconds and fourth eleven and ensuring that all the jobs as
captain have been done has been very taxing and sometimes upsetting.
Without the likes of my vice Taffy, Mark Allcock, Derek Westley and Lunny
on and off the pitch I fear I would have given up on a number of occasions.

I cannot write a report for my team without a mention of the Third and
Fourth team playing facility. Despite numerous meetings and promises given
by the Walsall Council Parks Managers over the last three years the pitch on
the King George V playing fields has again been a problem this year. This
resulted in some nasty injuries to Alan Fletcher and Mark Allcock and Taffy
took a real battering to the ribs on one occasion trying to forge an innings to
help our cause. I know that our committee is trying to sort this out this out for
next season and I wish them all the best for a speedy solution in this
endeavour.

The pleasing things to note this year have been the attitudes of the younger
players to what they see as the longer version of the game. I give my sincere
thanks to all of them who have turned out for me this season, all of you are a
credit to Bloxwich Cricket Club and with your continuing improvement will
take the club forward for many years to come.

I feel a special mention is needed for Andy Yorke and Ben Peach.
Andy Yorke is an inspiration with his “No fear” approach. If he continues to play
Cricket - which I’m sure he will, He could become Bloxwich C C’s Kevin
Peterson. Good luck Andy you know I believe in you.
Ben Peach has been the most dedicated colt I have had play for me this season .
He is always willing to play, umpire, score, field, bat and bowl, I have never heard
him complain once even though he has only bowled one or two overs all season.
He is a superb fielder with great hands for a youngster. Keep practicing and the
improvement you crave for come. Keep the belief in yourself mate.
My thanks also to Michael Peach, Cheryl Allcock, Nathan Langley, Chris
Collins, Richard Dale, Randeep Matharu and Ashley Worgan keep up the
good work guy’s your rewards will come.

It is with some sadness that this will be my last season playing Saturday
cricket and I wish the club , my successor and the team all the very best for
2007. It only remains for me to thank Joan and Mike for their hard work
providing teas for the troops. Gary Pearce for keeping us in the public eye
and Kelton and all the committee for their efforts behind the scenes ensuring
that environment and facilities continue to improve at the club……Hope I can
still get a game on Sunday’s !!!
PAUL BRADLEY