As the season rattles inexorably along and we move into the final third it has been something of a frustrating ride for all those connected with the cricket side of our club.
The weather has beaten us on umpteen occasions despite the best endeavours of Geoff Chambers and it has been impossible to establish any rhythm whether you are a batter or a bowler. The First Team have risen up the League with a number of solid performances which illustrates the talent we undoubtedly have within our ranks. Every season contains its `ifs or buts` but this one somehow takes the biscuit.
Congratulations are due to Rory Hanley on his call up to Scotland Under 19s and to Luke Doneathy for some excellent performances for Durham 2`s. Max Williamson has done well for Northumberland County and a host of our young Juniors (male and female) have played prominent roles in the various County Age Group Squads. At the other end of the age scale it was great to see Rashid Shad make his debut for the Northumberland Over 50`s v Durham recently,
Our second and various third teams (and of course Sally`s Angels) continue to enjoy success – there are cups and leagues to play for and given a fair wind and some real commitment on the availability front this could still end up a memorable season.
The hot midweek weather has brought about the inevitable Pearson meltdown as he strives to get umpteen teams out whilst miraculously holding down a real job. Fortunately our own Trevor Bayliss is enjoying a remarkable run of success (especially on Sundays) which we can only hope is softening the blow.
All Stars Cricket for 5 -8 years old is underway on Sunday mornings – the next generation of famous Hill names are enrolled Haxon, Wright, Askell, Bland, Kilpatrick. Why should Britain tremble?
Philip Nicholson is nearly over the line when it comes to breaking the First Team League Appearance Record an event we will celebrate on Presidents Day which is scheduled for Sunday September 1. Please note this date in your diary.
Off the field whilst it will be sad to see Shaun Rushton head off to foreign climes in a few weeks it was great that he chose to have a leaving do in the Club – apparently we ran out of beer and wine which is a decent effort from the Catholic Primary Teaching brigade plus the Hillbillies of course. Shaun will be back and will one day make a great Head Teacher.
Please continue to support the Club in whatever way you can – off and on the field. The Benwell Hill family is special but it is hard work to keep all the plates spinning and any help you can offer will always be gratefully appreciated.
Till August !
Simon Lunn
BHCC Chairman: Tel 07791 683827 : email: simon.lunn@live.co.uk
