Cricket Club Issue 49 | Page 59

Timperley “We are quietly optimistic for the forthcoming season. In 2018, our 1st XI were in the mix for honours for most of last season and it would be good to be as competitive again and perhaps go the extra mile and win something. The 1st XI has lost some pace out of its attack for this season but we hope that the new players coming in can compensate for this. Our 2nd XI had a poor season last year and got relegated and they are as keen as mustard to bounce straight back with a new Captain. “Our off season has gone ok. We held a successful fund-raising dinner in February and we have worked hard to retain our sponsorship base from last year. We have managed to retain most of our first XI squad from last season and recruited well having a well-balanced team for the 2019 season. The lads are looking forward to a couple of matches before the league starts. Fingers crossed for some dry weather (but not too dry unlike 2017 and 2018!).” “We hope to maintain or better our position in the 1st XI Premier League and that all of the other teams have predominantly positive seasons and lads enjoy their cricket. The Sports club is currently reorganising itself to become a Community Benefit Society and it is important that the Cricket section fully assists in this process. The club is also formulating a redevelopment plan for its facilities so the Cricket Section will need to be ready to assist with this in any way it can. “Youth cricket is integral to our club’s wellbeing and we have a vibrant junior section. We have close links to local schools and colleges providing coaching support “This is our second season sponsoring the club; I initially became involved twelve years ago when I took my sons, Tom and Jamie, down. We had previously looked at other clubs but didn’t like the feel of them whereas Timperley was friendly, welcoming and felt right. There is a good core of players there now and I’m looking forwards to the new season. Hopefully they can have another successful campaign and I wish everyone involved the best of luck.” Rob Matthews www.sportip.biz 59