After much anticipation, the first weekend of League fixtures are upon us.
As has been publicised elsewhere, the Bradford League have postponed this weekends games due to the recent wet weather. A large majority of clubs were concerned they wouldn't be able to prepare proper cricket wickets and that play could damage the square for the remainder of the season. This means that the 1st XI's home game against last year's 2nd division champions: Sandal will be rearranged. Likewise the 2nd XI who were due to travel to newly-promoted Brighouse will do so later in the season.
The Dales Council league plows on regardless however. The 3rd XI are home to Shipley Prov and will want to make an early mark in a league with a number of new teams from other leagues. Captain Dave Hodgson has picked a side packed with products of our junior section. Many of these players have made great contributions in the 3rd & 4th teams and towards winning the Mid-Yorkshire Sunday league for the last two years. The planned unveiling of Don Butterfield's benches has been delayed due to the weather.
The 4s are away at Drighlington against their demoted 2nd XI with a similar side to much of last year with the addition of some junior players who will be introduced to senior league cricket for the first time. I suspect their usually quick-scoring ground might play a bit slower this weekend so opportunities there for the bowlers.
Finally, a reminder that it's deadline day for Baildon Fantasy Cricket! Get your teams in to Simon ASAP https://www.baildoncricketclub.com/post/baildon-fantasy-cricket-2023