Eaton CC fast-tracked into a new era

The winter months have been far from inactive at Eaton Cricket Club. In November, Friday evenings were spent at Wymondham Sports’ Centre competing in an indoor tournament in which St Andrew’s and Saham Toney were eliminated before Eaton moved on to the “finals’ day” event.

Eaton were beaten by a strong Mundford side in the semi-final, but the enjoyment generated by the short, sharp action of this format in our third year of participation was such that we will be back next November to try again.

CHANGING TIMES: Eaton CC will play Norfolk Alliance cricket at the CNS School ground for the first time this season.

Having had our promotion to the Norfolk Alliance confirmed before Christmas, we learned in January that instead of starting in Division Six, we are to be fast-tracked into Division Five. This will provide the club with a very challenging set of fixtures, including games against three teams from the west of the county – Denver, Narborough and Thornham – who we have never played before. We have finalised our full 24 weeks Sunday friendly programme which starts at Overstrand on April 13. One can only hope that the weather might have warmed up a little by then. Our Sunday fixtures provide an ideal entry into the club for young cricketers and for anyone looking for a return to the game.

Although as a Norfolk Alliance club we are no longer eligible for the Wensum Cup, which we have won in two of the past three seasons, we will continue to play in two midweek competitions. One is the Wicklewood Shield to which we have been invited since 2013 but have never won, despite reaching the final four times. In the Norfolk Senior Cup it is likely that we will meet some very strong opposition.

Indoor net practice starts on March 22 at Hellesdon High School (10.30 to 12) and then the three following Saturdays. If anyone would like to join us for indoor practice, they would be very welcome. It would be helpful if they could contact club secretary, John Chilvers at alexandjohn5@btinternet.com

Eaton CC junior softball sessions start at the CNS School on Saturday mornings (10-11) for 10 weeks from May 10. To register  interest or for more details contact Donna (07880236253 or  donnamaund@gmail.com) – John Chilvers.