Captain's Notes - 2000

It is with a great sense of pride and anticipation that I take over the reigns of the 1st XI for the season 2000. The past few seasons have been ones of mixed emotion, however, it cannot be overstressed that the forthcoming season is one of the most important in our proud history.

With it now being December 99 the middle of September seems all but a distant memory to most, and cricket is probably not what most people are thinking about. However, the committee is busily trying to prepare for next season and to ensure that we immediately return to section one, that I believe has to be our sole aim for the 2000 season.

With that in mind it is crucial that when the season starts in April we are in a position to commence our league campaign in the best possible shape. Therefore I ask every one to make themselves available as much as possible right throughout the club this consequently ensures that the 1st XI are in a position to choose the their best available eleven players on as many occasions as possible.

It will be my intention to start pre-season nets at the beginning of February for the 1st eleven squad. From the beginning of March, numbers permitting, this will be open to the whole of the club. This is I believe crucial if the club as a whole is to be successful next season. However, for nets to be of any constructive use for those present, numbers are vital and especially numbers from the same standard and team, to ensure a practice session of real benefit.

For those browsing through our web site who are not members of North I welcome you and trust you find it both informative and interesting. If you are interested in playing cricket in Belfast in the forthcoming season do not hesitate to contact the club via our email address. We welcome players of all standards and of all ages. As the club enters the new millennium we are, I believe, also embarking on a new challenge as we move from Ormeau, within two years, up to Deramore. A new state of the art pavilion, playing and practice facilities will be built that will be second to none. With our proud history behind us and an exciting new future ahead, there will be many more great times for North of Ireland Cricket Club.

Anyone wishing to contact me directly can do so on the following: -

Stephen Dyer
1st XI Captain (2000)
December 1999