The time is ticking away, the countdown is on and it will not be too long before the first call of 'play' is heard at Rowner Green for the start of the 2011 onslaught - so where are we up to at present.............

As you are all aware, it was with regret and reluctance that I accepted the formal resignation of Jim Kemp as our 1Xl Captain after he had successfully led the 1Xl to two consecutive promotions and up into CD3. Since this time, I have been asking for anybody who believed they had the credentials and skill set to put themselves into the ring for consideration by the committee.

For those in attendance, we discussed it at length at the 2010 AGM (although only 2 1Xl members were present) but the request has been met with deathly silence from within the club membership. Only a couple of key personalities have stepped forward to give their own personal reasons as to why they did 'not' wish to be considered - these details were fully accepted and honoured.

The position of captain is clearly defined within the laws of cricket and carries a greater degree of responsibility within these laws that many probably realise, so it is especially important that the right person is in this position.

Following a number of discussions within your committee, a suitable candidate was recently highlighted from within the membership and it was agreed that a formal offer would be presented to him for his consideration. Initially this was done verbally and was followed up formally by letter; our nominated 2Xl and Sunday captains also received a similar letter detailing their responsibilities under the laws of cricket.

It is with great pleasure that I am now in a position to formally announce that Rowner CC 1Xl has a new captain for the 2011 season, somebody who I know has the full respect of all the club's players, not just as an exceptional all rounder with bat and ball, but as a great person in general. He has the visible determination to drive the 1Xl forward and it is hoped that with the full backing of his team, he can lead them to another quick promotion.

Your 1Xl Captain for 2011 is ............................
    Srujith Wickramasinghe

Law Changes - Are you all aware of what has changed post 31 Oct 10? There have been some significant changes, make sure you know what they are!
Discipline - a key factor for 2011 - don't find youself on the wrong side of the Laws - play fair, respect both the umpires and your opposition - but play to WIN!

It with regret also that Greg Butler has hung up his boots and will not be part of the 2011 team pushing for another promotion. Greg has also shown a determinaton to win and succeed and was instrumental in the success and promotion of the 1Xl in 2010. A character that will be missed on the field of play, I offer my sincerest thanks for all he has done with the club and wish him all the best for the future, hoping the rest of his back may allow him to continue playing in the future. Thanks and best wishes.