Club news
So we are now in March which means the new season is fast approaching and it’s fair to say there has been a few changes both on and off the field. Dwayne Heke has left, for family reasons, to join East Bierley. Everyone at the club was disappointed to see Dwayne go, but he goes with our best wishes, apart from when he plays against us!
Abdullah Khan, has left to join Undercliffe, after a successful season. Again we thank Abdullah for his contribution.
As a result of Dwayne leaving, we have a new captain in the form of Kevin McDermott. Everyone wishes Kev all the best, and he has finally confirmed his presence with a solitary Whatsapp message!
In the second team, we also have a change at the top too, with Kev’s brother Simon taking over the second team captaincy. He takes over from Darren Wilson, who has stepped down after 5 years at the helm, and who is again unlikely to play much in 2023 due to his ongoing knee injury.
There is no change in the third and fourth team leadership. Off the field we also have a change of groundsman. Chris Reynolds has stepped down, and we thank him for his contribution over a number of years. The pitch and wicket at Baildon has now been excellent during this period, which is in no small part down to Chris’ involvement, along with his small band of volunteers. Therefore, to keep it in the family, Dave McDermott has taken over as Groundsman, and we are confident he will perform the role admirably.
Of course losing senior players is not ideal, and something that we didn’t plan for. We felt with the team we finished the season with, along with a couple of additions would push us forward. However, that was not to be so we have looked to bring in reinforcements and feel happy to date in the transfer business we have done.
Mehbran Khan has arrived from Jer Lane and will add a solid batting option to the team, having won promotion last year.
Charlie Mallik a young 16 year old leg spinner arrives from Green Lane. Charlie is part of the Yorkshire Academy and comes highly recommended, as well as currently being coached at the Adil Rashid academy.
Also arriving is Raman Athwal from Guiseley, another promising young player who is keen to make the step up this year.
We are also looking for increased contributions from our younger players Will Kelly and Joel Newlove, who will undoubtably be stronger for a full year’s first team experience behind them. Both have the ability to be key players for the club and we will back them in their quest to do so.
The second team have no plans to make any signings and will continue to promote from within the club
100 Club
We currently have 35 numbers available within out 100 club. £5.00 a month per number, x 35 numbers, x 12 months = £2100.00 per annum. This is revenue that the club is missing out on, that could be put to good use. This is the easiest way the club can raise revenue, so please pledge your support on this and take a number. From prizes ranging from £250 - £30.00 monthly, you have to be in it to win it!
Ball Sponsors
We need ball sponsors and need your help. Do you know a business or person who would be happy to sponsor in return for free publicity? If so speak to them about the benefits of this. We will promote their business on social media at their allocated home game, and even buy their first drink behind the bar. Ball Sponsorship starts at £20.00 per game, with various packages available. Speak to the Committee for further details.
Questionnaire
We have recently launched our club questionnaire and we want your views. This is completely confidential, but by completing the questionnaire we can understand what people want, what they can offer and where our focus needs to be over the next 12 months. This is your club, and by having your say we aim to make it the best place possible for everyone. The link is available on our Facebook page.