Congratulations to the 2nd team, under the guidance of Andrew and Jack, on winning the league and therefore gaining promotion to division 4 as well as reaching a cup final and a finals day. 20 players played league games this season, 5 of whom played only once. This shows a strong core of regular players with 8 averaging over 20 with the bat and 6 taking over 10 wickets demonstrating that this was a true team effort. Special mentions go to Jamie Bradley's 496 league runs (4th in the league) and Ewan McCabe's 42 league wickets (1st in the league). If the team can maintain their team spirit and strong momentum, I see no reason why they can't go on to have a successful 2023. Thanks to Andrew, Jack and the rest of the team for their efforts through the season.

Following the heights of 2021, the 1st team have had a disappointing season. A 6th place finish in the league was supported by Chris Winn's 484 runs, Aron McCabe's 433 runs, Stuart Graham's 30, Chris Winn's 28 and Daniel Pyke's 23 wickets. Positives include welcoming 3 new players in Chris Winn, Robbie Hockaday and Craig Burke as well as a debut for junior player Will Marshall. We look forward to welcoming John Meadows and Lee Whitfield for the coming season. Thanks to Stuart, Andrew and the rest of the team. Particular thanks to Stuart for his efforts in recent seasons following his decision to take a step back from playing in 2023. I think I speak for everyone involved in the club (although perhaps not Amy but even that might be debatable) when I say that we hope he changes his mind.

The Academicals lead by Harry and Stephen had a good year finishing 3rd in the league. Ewan McCabe, Dan O'Sullivan, Will Marshall and Jamie Bradley all scored over 200 league runs. Harry Davison, Will Marshall, Ewan McCabe, James Thompson and Ellis Moore each took over 10 league wickets. This team has been key to the development of our junior players over the years so we look forward to welcoming the under 13s, under 11s and under 9s as they develop over the coming years. Thanks to Harry, Stephen and the team this season.

One of our key focus areas as a club in recent years is the development of our junior teams. We continue to welcome large numbers to dynamos and all stars on Thursday and Friday nights. The dynamos are helping to drive attendance of girls and we hope this will develop into a full ladies team in the future. All teams performed well and of particular note is the youth of the team that finished runners up in their cup final to Burnmoor with several players still being eligible for under 9s. Special thanks to all involved including the players, the parents and all coaches including Stuart Graham, Mark Dixon, Stephen Turnbull, Stephen Gray, Andrew Forster, Erika Leonard and all other coaches involved with all stars.

Big thanks to all of those behind the scenes, I'm really hoping I don't miss anyone. Thanks for the tireless work undertaken by the ground staff - Keith, Gordon, Geoff, David and John. Our Scorers through the season Phil and Erika. Thanks to everyone that helped out with teas through the season, we have tried and failed to have these removed from 2023 but will look to influence some clubs through the season to change their mind. Thanks to Mark for running the 100 club. Thanks to all of the bar staff. Thanks to all of the committee, particular for sitting through the monthly marathon meetings - or is it management?

I don't wish to end on a negative but i feel that this is a key area for our club to develop. Behaviour at times this season has been extremely poor in my personal opinion. I'd like to take this opportunity to remind people of the spirit of cricket. This is not directed at any particular member but serves as a reminder to all ahead of the coming season. To avoid reading the whole guidance, I've quoted some specific laws within the ECB (and therefore our league and our club) regulations. I feel that these are the most pertinent to our club over recent seasons.

1.1.3 Players and team officials must at all times accept the umpire’s decision. Players must not show dissent at the umpire’s decision or react in a provocative or disapproving manner towards another player 

or a spectator.

1.1.4 Players and team officials shall not intimidate, assault or attempt to intimidate or assault an umpire, another player or a spectator.

1.1.5 Players and team officials shall not use crude and/or abusive language (known as “sledging”) nor make offensive gestures or hand signals nor deliberately distract an opponent.

1.1.6 Players and team officials shall not make racially abusive comments nor indulge in racially abusive actions against fellow players, officials, members and supporters. Clubs must operate an active open door membership policy whilst respecting player qualification regulations and welcome players/members irrespective of ethnic origin.

1.1.7 Players and team officials shall not use or in any way be concerned in the use or distribution of illegal drugs.

Please can all members remind themselves of these laws ahead of the coming season.