Paul Dawson on the ups and downs of the cricket season so far

cricketers pose by a circket scoreboard — Newham Cricket Club

Following the disappointment of our pre-season indoor sessions, which were curtailed just five weeks into a 15-week build up due to defective lighting in Newham Leisure, we had low expectations for the summer season.

We were playing catch up to all the Essex clubs, who had the advantage of multiple facilities and this was exacerbated by all the pre-season friendlies being rained off in April, so we went into the cup games on 5 May on the back of just two outdoor training sessions.

Then to our delight we decisively won all 3 of our opening games v Woodford Green U9, Redbridge U11 and Frenford U15A!

The next week on Sunday 12 May we beat Woodford Wells U9, Wanstead U11B and Frenford U15B, losing narrowly to Woodford Green U13 (in a game that new boy Ali Bhatti took 4 wickets in 4 balls, and 5 for 19 in all).

On Thursday 16 May the U13s made up for their loss by beating Leyton Wktz in our first foray into the Midweek League. Altogether there have been nine wins out of eleven so far!

Tributes to head coach Ben Chitiyo, who volunteers his services for expenses only and also to female coach Aiswarya, Sajjad, Dr Kharwar and Saad, the last three senior adult players who give their knowledge as assistant coaches and help to manage the teams. Also, Amitabh Lall, who has been a long-time volunteer, and fills in on many areas of the club.

All coaches and volunteers are DBS checked and hold first aid and safeguarding certificates.

We are always looking for new players, and new volunteers. We will train volunteers and put them through certified courses, and have had a number of previous volunteers who are now coaching professionals.

If interested contact pauldawson384@gmail.com or visit newhamcc.com

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