Message from Hon. Sec, John Murphy
You will have hopefully heard about yesterday's announcement from the ECB regarding the return of recreational cricket, which means club cricket is allowed to resume in England from 11th July 2020.
This is clearly a positive development, but the short notice given presents some challenges to the cricketing community. Furthermore, finalised detailed guidance about the practicalities of a return to recreational cricket is not yet available.
The Jesters Cricket Club is keen to make the most of the remainder of the cricketing summer. Our starting point will be the existing fixture list on this website, however there will probably need to be changes. Our opponents who also play in leagues and cups are awaiting information about rescheduling of those competitions, and this may have a knock-on effect on Sunday cricket. In the shorter term there may be problems with ground preparation.
Our Hon. Match Secretary, Jonny Bridcut, is in the process of confirming the existing fixtures. Where possible we will look to add new fixtures too, and we have already secured a game against Totteridge Millhillians on 20th September. Please keep an eye on the website for the latest news on fixtures.
At this stage, I can confirm that next Sunday's fixture against Maidenhead and Bray will not go ahead. It is just too soon for us to get a side together, especially when we do not yet know the guidance from the ECB and Government. One concern I have is regarding transport to games as car sharing is common and we need to consider the advice on this when it comes. It is important to note that a return to play does not come without risk, and we must each make our personal decision on whether to play. There are often many factors involved (including work, family, health, and childcare issues) and the Club will respect the decision of anyone who decides not to take to a cricket field this summer for whatever reason.
If you are interested in playing in a game, please feel free to drop a line to the relevant match manager now, noting that we do not yet know which games are definitely going ahead. It is however helpful for match managers to know about potential availability at this stage.
Finally, I can confirm that the Club's AGM and Annual Dinner has been provisionally booked for Friday, 13th November 2020. The venue will again be The Jugged Hare. Of course whether we can hold the meeting and dinner will depend on Government guidance at the time, but please put this in your diary. More details on this will be circulated in due course. I will be in touch again when the situation is clearer.
Best wishes
John Murphy
Hon. Secretary, Jesters Cricket Club