Chairman's Welcome to Torquay Cricket Club
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to The Recreation Ground for the 2023 season. I hope we are blessed with a glorious summer of sunshine to rival last year !!
As a club we have been looking forward to the 2023 season with great optimism. Our first Xl have a new captain with Harry Baxendale taking the reigns .The first Xl will be competing in the A Division, and it is the clubs hope and ambition that we will return to the Premier Division in the not-too-distant future.
The second Xl, will again be playing in E Division West and aiming to be competitive with our talented crop of juniors allied to a few “old heads”.
Friday night will continue to be the fulcrum around which much of our club activity revolves. Parents and members are able to enjoy a relaxing drink whilst watching our Junior training sessions and matches played on the main square. For lovers of grass roots cricket there can be no better environment. Senior training takes place predominantly on Tuesday evenings.
I am delighted that Neil Eckers continues his excellent work as Head Groundsman. Last season was challenging due to the incredibly dry weather. With a little help from Mother Nature, we will have the best wickets and outfield in the division !!
I am also delighted to welcome Ruan Terblanche as our overseas professional. Ruan is an exciting opening bat and seam bowler . He hails from South Africa and has represented the national team from U15 to U19 level . He has been described as the “best batsman of his generation” by Graeme Swann’s former bowling coach, which is high praise indeed . Please take the time to introduce yourselves to Ruan and to do your best to make him feel welcome in the Bay so that his experience is an enjoyable one . It is incumbent on us all to ensure Ruan enjoys his time both on and off the field of play.
Our fantastic group of volunteers continue to improve our pavilion and facilities by devoting their time weekly to much needed decoration and maintenance. Without their hard work and commitment, the club would be a much poorer place. On behalf of all those who benefit from your efforts, I offer my sincere thanks!!
We are exceptionally grateful for the continued sponsorship that we receive. These sponsors generously donate in order that the club can continue to provide first class training facilities and playing opportunities for young people throughout the season. I would urge all members and visitors to The Rec to support these businesses when they are able.
I hope you enjoy your time at The Rec and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in good health and good humour on the boundary rope.
Best wishes
Ian Baker
