Pocklington Cricket Club face a fast approaching season with high hopes of success on the field and a change of leadership.
Following a successful 2013, with the club winning the Albert Pattison Trophy for the most improved club in the Hunters York & District Senior Cricket League, a first XI finishing fourth in division three and a thriving junior section, Pocklington aims to make 2014 an even greater success with promotion a priority.
2014 sees Pocklington first XI playing in the newly-formed division two north after regionalisation of the York League. This season, the first XI will be led by Alex Downey who takes over from Matt Atkinson after two relatively successful seasons. The squad will be mostly as last season, with the addition of new signing Andy Anderson, who has transferred from local rivals Woodhouse Grange CC.
Chairman Andy Inns told the Pocklington Post that the signing of Andy: “will add depth to a strong batting line-up as well as some excellent leadership and motivational skills.” Andy will help Alex as his vice-captain.
It is also hoped Pocklington first XV rugby captain, Ben Rees, will be available for more games this season.
After looking at the fixtures, the division looks very strong, with no easy games. However, Pocklington should be looking to gain top spot and promotion to Division one next season.
The second XI will be led by Dan Croft who will be supported by evergreen James Saltmer. Dan takes over leadership from Robin Miller who did a great job in 2013.
The team will be in division four west and, as with the first XI, should be looking to gain a top spot and promotion into a higher division.
Steve Relf again captains the third XI. With some old players and promising youngsters, the third XI continues to be a production line of talent to feed into the more senior sides.
They should enjoy their time in division four of the HPH York Vale Cricket League.
Off the pitch, Alan Davies retired as treasurer after over 20 years of service to the club.
Alan has been a real treasure, looking after the accounts and maintaining the ground and clubhouse over his period of service. A massive thank you goes out to Alan from all at the club.
Replacing Alan as treasurer, Simon Baty has already made his mark at the club.
After the recent success of new changing rooms, the club now hopes to replace their practice facilities with new outdoor nets. Simon has submitted several grant applications which could help fund new nets in the near future.
Pocklington begin their preparations for the new season on Sunday 2 February. Senior indoor nets run from 2pm-4pm at Pocklington School (Old Railway Station). Junior nets commence on the same day, however they will be at Francis Scaife Sports Centre - Under 9s and Under 11s (Years 2-6) run from 3.45pm-4.45pm and Under 13s and Under 15s (Years 7 to 10) run from 4.45pm-5.45pm.
The club welcomes new and old players, of all ages and gender, to come and join in nets and have some fun.
If you would like to join Pocklington CC, or just have some questions, do not hesitate to get in contact with Andy Inns on 07790 243703 or Alex Downey on 07887 944732.