After a cold, wet May and early June a very welcome change took place, and a period of gloriously fine and warm weather set in and lasted until the end of the season.

The first Test Match, June 9th to 14th, was allotted to Trent Bridge. Owing to heavy rain for two days prior to the start, the wicket was slow and easy. England won comfortably by an innings and five runs.

We regret that our team was not so successful as in the last two years, dropping from fifth to eleventh place in the Championship Table. We won ten Matches, the same number as in 1954, but lost eleven, as against six in that year.

The team played good and interesting cricket, but we have to report a decline in that very important aspect of the game, fielding, vital catches being dropped in many games.

Mr. R.T. Simpson again captained the side well, and had a much better season, scoring 1,407 runs. At times he was troubled with illness, which eventually leld to a sinus operation. We are glad to say he appears to have made a very good recovery, and we have great hopes of him for the coming season.

Bruce Dooland captured 147 wickets and made 899 runs; a great performance. He was handicapped by a number of minor injuries, and it was only his keenness that enabled him to play in as many matches as he did.

Hardstaff played several innings reminiscent of his former self, and shortly before he retired he made 75 and 134 against Yorkshire. The Committee desire to express their appreciation of the valuable services he has rendered to cricket over many years, and wish him the best of luck in his retirement. His testimonial reached the sum of £1361.

Gamini Goonesena, who was awarded his County Cap, proved to be one of the outstanding cricketers of the year and had the satisfaction of being the first to reach the double, namely 1,000 runs and 100 wickets.

Smales, whose impressive advance earned him a  County Cap, took 117 wickets and was a great assistance to the side.

Stocks, Giles, Poole, C.J and Clay all batted well on occasions, and each exceeded 1,000 runs.

Poole K showed promise both as a bowler and batsman, and the Committee have great hopes of him.

Jepson represented the one seam bowler, and had to work hard, which, as usual, he did cheerfully. He was supported by Matthews when he was able to obtain leave. This season Alan Walker will be available.

Rowe, in his second season, was a very competent wicket-keeper.

Whilst the Second Eleven were not so successful in the Minor Counties Championship the Committee are of the opinion that the outlook is bright, as we have several promising youngsters on the staff. Our thanks are due to the joint Captains H.R. Cox and B. Notley.

Jim Parks again proved an excellent coach.

During the year, Mr. George Gunn and Mr. G. H. Green retired from your Committee, and being eligible are appointed vice-Presidents. Mr. E.A. Marshall’s resignation was accepted in December and your Committee wish to record their appreciation of the good work done by all three members for many years.

A new double-decker stand was completed in time for the Test Match and much work is now proceeding to increase and improve the amenities of the ground. The groundsman’s house is being converted into a Cloakroom accommodation for ladies and gentlemen on the ground floor. The Players’ Dressing-room accommodation is being modernised, and adequate changing facilities provided.

It has been decided to erect a permanent Broadcasting box at the front of the Members pavilion after removal of the canopy.

All this wok will be completed in time for the Test Match.

NOTTS YOUTH CRICKET COUNCIL

Activities of the above continue to expand. A mass coaching demonstration was given during the Test Match and this was televised. Five Junior County Matches against neighbouring Counties were played. Selected boys were coached at Trent Bridge in the winter, and during the summer at various centres in the County, and some are showing promise.

NOTTS COUNTY CRICKET SUPPORTERS’ ASSOCIATION

During 1955 the Association made generous donations to the Club. These are greatly appreciated and your Committee wish to express their thanks for the work which they are doing for cricket in Nottinghamshire.

Members are reminded that in accordance with Rule 16j the Committee has power to refuse admission to the ground of any member whose subscription has not been paid by the first day of June.

This rule will be strictly enforced and NO admittance will be granted or subscription accepted at the Test Match.

On behalf of your Committee,

J.J. Lane, Chairman