A look ahead to the 2024 season.
'Two South Africans and 9 Norfolk lads trying to make history'
A gentle wind blows across the fields of Manor Park in early April and as the patio gets laid, sightscreens get painted and hybrid pitches are installed there is a sense of accomplishment and eagerness throughout Horsford Cricket Club.
With an extremely successful winter both on and off the pitch, we are raring to go in what could be a cracking 2024 season. Vast improvements have been made at Manor Park - new covers, hybrid pitch installation and a revamp to the the pavillion. We have also had a strong winter recruitment programme which has meant that Horsford CC 1st XI sit in a much stronger position compared to the end of the 2023 season.
Last year was a learning curve for the 1st XI players and with just 3 squad members over the age of 25, this young side surely will grow and get stronger as a squad. Cam Graveling enjoyed his first year playing in the EAPL and has no doubt gained some invaluable experience. Ben Panter enjoyed some success once returning back from Gresham's school and after wintering in Australia he is back, match fit and raring to go. Charlie Hood has returned from Cromer to keep wicket and the exciting all rounder Will Bowman has joined us from Norwich Cricket Club. Our overseas professional from South Africa Jordan Neil plays alongside the evergreen Neil Hornbuckle which could prove to be an exciting middle order partnership.
Will Rogers has been named vice captain for the 2024 season and i am sure along with the other top order batters, Jason Reynolds and Ethan Metcalf they are eager to start the season strongly.
Our bowling attack has been improved, Ryan Findlay should be available for more games, Will Bowman bolsters our middle overs seam attack and Jordan Neil will hopefully bring some much needed experience. Callum Metcalf who led the Horsford bowling attack so well in the 22-23 season will hope to spearhead the young seamers.
A young side which is growing with EAPL experience, i am sure an intriguing season awaits us. We begin our campaign at Home to arguably one of the strongest sides in the EAPL, Sawston. They seem to have recruited well over the winter, introducing 3 or 4 fresh faces to an already well oiled machine. Looking at recruitment across the league, we have seen some strong overseas professionals join rival clubs.
Once again we enter the National Knockout tournaments, our first game will be hosted at Manor Park on the 28th April against Bishop Stortford CC. The National T20 competition will take place at Barton Turf (Ashmanhaugh CC) and we have been drawn against fellow Norfolk rivals Swardeston CC. More details to follow.
I am sure that you will all join me in wishing Horsford CC 1st XI all the best for the coming season, and no doubt the support from all spectators will be greatly appreciated.
It’s time to dust off the whites and play some cricket!
