The cricket season is back with Moulton Harrox looking to kick off in memory of their former first team captain.
The club were devastated at the death of 1st XI captain Mark Ramsden over the winter.
Now they’re looking to ‘build on the foundations he laid’.
Matt Rose has taken on the captaincy and they’re targeting another top three finish after a fine second in the South Lincs and District League last time around.
“It’s been a really hard off season for many reasons, losing our beloved captain and friend Mark Ramsden which we are still recovering from,” said club chairman Dipan Suwarneraj. “The main focus has been to try and restablise the club and kick on from the foundations Rambo laid.”
Rose has stepped up to 1st XI captain, with veteran Josh Newton supporting as his vice.
Rob Callaby will captain the 2nd XI aided by Lewis Martin joining as his vice.
Harry Lovell is continuing as the Sunday captain.
“We’ve made some really strong additions to the 1st XI, with Flynn McMillan returning as the overseas and Uddyhan Hansana joining from Long Sutton,” continyed Suwarneraj. “Both are anticipated to be stand out players for the season.
“We have retained Robbie Townsend who is an exceptional all rounder and will play a pivotal role in the side.
“Rose was the leading wicket taker in the league last season and Newton is always up there in terms of runs.
“Lovell has returned from a successful season in New Zealand, playing 1st XI cricket for Fielding CC and will play a huge role with the ball this season.
“The league is looking very strong this season, especially with Long Sutton coming down.
“We are targeting a top three finish this season with the goal of embedding some of our youngsters into the 1st XI.
“The academy is looking stronger than ever, with Ruari Drumm stepping into the Lincs set up after consistently scoring runs last season across all teams. Anish Suwarneraj and Zak Maddison are also exceptional youngsters, that will be pushing for 1st XI cricket throughout the season.
“A new name to watch out for is Ruby Forsyth who has been around the academy and Lincolnshire Cricket Club set up for a while now and has continued to impress.
“She will be looking to make her senior debut this season which is really exciting.
“Andy Cranke has stepped down as head of the academy after a successful several years which we are incredibly grateful for.
“Winter nets have been really positive across all teams, with professional coach Paul Edgellar (PEC Cricket) leading all of our academy and women’s sessions, which has been fantastic. The senior sides have been training for the last month and we have seen great numbers as well as strong individual progression.”
Drumm has certainly started off his season well.
He carried his bat in a brilliant 104 not out as Moulton’s Sunday side began its Rutland League campaign with an eight run win over Market Overton on Sunday.
He hit ten fours and a six in his 117 ball unbeaten knock as Moulton posted 211-9 from their 40 overs. Drumm’s fellow opener McMillan was second top scorer with 37.
Market Overton looked set for victory as they recovered from 65-4 to 156-5 thanks to Stewart Naylor’s 66 from 46 balls in an 89 ball partnership with Charlie Milner (28).
Cameron Fox (2-30) took both wickets before Anish Suwarneraj (3-38) mopped up the tail just in time, Overton all out for 203 with seven balls remaining.
The earlier damage was done by Dylan Stukins (2-22), Maddison (2-27) and Paul Bullock (1-28).
To aid these promising players a new artificial pitch has been laid for the academy teams.
Moulton are next looking to replace their static nets for next season.
Suwarneraj added: “We are incredibly fortunate to be supported by local businesses who have helped us to purchase new playing kit for all members, including our ladies’ team to have their first ever playing wear as well as improving the coaching equipment we use.
“We have installed our first ever electronic scoreboard which makes a huge difference and we have increased the accessibility around the ground.
“We are excited to see how the season plays out and would like to thank the local community for all of the support they continue to give us.”
