With the cricket season now over and done with, there are a few changes taking place in the coming months, notably with captains.
AB Steps Down
Firstly, Alex is stepping down after two years in the First XI hot seat. Frustrated with his contribution as a player this year, Alex wants to focus on getting back to his best form as a lively, skiddy bowler, and quick-scoring middle-order batsmen.
Alex took the job at short notice two seasons ago. He immediately had to deal with the loss of Elliot Hennessey, Dan Sumner and Brad Compton-Bearne, probably our three best players at the time. To make his gig even harder, we were promoted to County 2 for the first time.
After getting relegated, we made a strong start to 2022 but faded away in the final third of the season when a swift return to C2 couldn’t be achieved. Alex found this tough going whilst also carrying a bad back injury. After some reflection, he has decided it was time for a change.
Candidates
Fortunately, we have had a good response, with Ian Bennett, Dan Jones, and James Bayliss, all standing for captain next year. I think these are three good candidates for members to think about voting for at the AGM in November. Good luck to them.
As for Alex, I would like to thank him for the commitment and desire he has shown as captain. He was often working with twenty odd players of similar ability and trying to turn it into a balanced team of 11. It’s not easy as you can’t satisfy everyone.
The fact that Alex wants to stay central to the committee and the ongoing development of the club, tells you everything about the type of members we have at Oakley. He’s a top bloke, is Alex.
Tuckers Departs Third XI
On the subject of top blokes, Kris is also departing the Third XI role due to commitments with the Colts and the rest of his family. Kris takes on a lot with coaching the Colts and just can’t find the time for everything, so it is wise that he steps down.
The Third XI Captain’s role is obviously not as attractive as the First XI, as no one has put their hand up yet. We hope they do, as it is important to have a recognised skipper, rather than having to rotate the role between willing players.
If you are reading this and thinking about it, please give it a go as it is enjoyable bringing the kids through the system and wondering what Deano might do next. I did it once last year and thoroughly enjoyed it. It is not too intense and although winning is nice, the development of players is more important.
As for Kris, he will still be around, playing when he can and supporting the development of his two boys and the rest of the colts. He is entrenched in Oakley now and is a welcome and fun character in and around the bar. Thanks for your year in charge, Kris, it was a good laugh, especially that memorable day at Aldershot.
Other Roles
All the other roles (apart from fixtures secretary) are staying in place, unless challenged by members. These include Chairman (Bob Lethaby) Secretary (Dan Jones) Treasurer (Peter Holcroft) Second Team Captain (Jack Brundle) Clubhouse Manager (Ollie Rabley) Groundsman (Ian Bennett) and Welfare Officer (Angela Woodward). We are also recreating the role of Functions & Fixtures Manager, which AB has put his name forward for.
So, if any members have been thinking about standing for positions in the club, please do so by contacting me on bob@lethabyandcook.co.uk.
Cheers all.
The Chair