Second Eleven 1968

A generally understrength 2nd XI team found the pace difficult last year. Although suffering from this handicap on the whole they performed creditably with good wins over Worcestershire (twice) and Warwickshire.

They, along with most other teams, were badly affected by the adverse weather and had a considerable number of games interfered with, one match having to be abandoned the day before it was due to take place.

Most of the first-class counties are limiting expenses and reducing their playing staffs and consequently the teams have to be made up of their best local amateurs available. A complete reappraisal of the structure of Second XI cricket will have to be made in the near future.

In its present form the ‘grounding’ for first class cricket is now proving inadequate.

Of the notable performers last season Barry Stead was the most consistent bowler taking 68 wickets in 12 matches. The batsmen only on occasions produced their best form with Basharat Hassan the main run-getter followed by Bob Kelsall who played many promising knocks in this first season.

Particular thanks are extended to the many local cricketers, too numerous to mention individually, who helped considerably by playing in the Second XI matches; many of them at very short notice. We hope they will continue to offer their services when required.