In issue 11 of Wisden Cricket Monthly, Rich Evans asked whether self-interest, in-fighting and selection politics are creating divisions in our grassroots cricket clubs. Our readers have had their say on last month’s Club Debate.
For more club cricket views and debates, subscribe to Wisden Cricket Monthly magazine.
READ THE DEBATE: Club politics: Are we all campaigning for the same end goal?
“Most people are amenable but there have been a few selfish individuals that have caused my club a lot of trouble. I remember one player who was good but would often go and play for another club and then come back. When he got a hundred in a friendly, everybody turned their back and walked into the pavilion – he did not understand why his selfishness had made him so unpopular. If our club had a stronger constitution he would not have been allowed back and a lot of heartache would have been saved. Also, it should be drummed into new members that you are picked for the club – not just to play for a certain team or with friends.”
David Rimmer, St. Margaretsbury CC – via email
“We‘ve got none of those [selection and integration] issues . Our three league teams play, train and socialise together. Selection is subjective but is made independently from the captains with clear accountability. Our diversity is our No.1 strength – no excuse for cliques.”
Oxenford CC – via Twitter
“Why recruit players who aren’t committed to the club and don’t integrate with existing members? Seeking promotion for promotion’s sake is silly and counterproductive.”
Adam Brown – via Twitter
“Thousands of clubs are in a similar situation. I’d happily double fees for those that just play and don’t put something back into the club.”
Mark Shuttleworth – via Twitter
On law changes in club cricket:
“The Mankad run out rule has caused a lot of bad feeling – and clubs that had good names now have a bad one because of the change. Only one or two have decided to enforce it, but it’s worrying when you see kids doing it.”
Kelvin Bartle – via Twitter
On friendly cricket (WCM10):
“We at Roan and Lambethans CC are still promoting family involvement. Victoria and Robert Bagge, who are sister and brother, play in our twos quite often. Gerry, Joseph and Phoebe Franklin (Dad, brother and sister) have been participants too! Dad and daughter completed a 50-plus partnership recently. The ECB have been informed and we await to see if this is a first for the Kent Regional County League.”
Gerry Franklin – via email
Read more club cricket stories online.
