Longton CC

1/ When did you become captain and why?

Midway through last season and in strange circumstances. We played on the Saturday in the league and had a cup game on the Sunday. All the players turned up on the Sunday ready to play except the captain who was nowhere to be seen and nobody could contact him. I think I just ended up saying, ‘sod it, i’ll do it!’

2/ Is the role what you expected it to be?

Last season was great, I didnt have any issues, coming in halfway through was a bonus I think because the organisation was already in place, I was just in charge on the field. This season has proved to be a little different, I don’t have children but I imagine that being a captain is like having 10 kids to look after, you have to do everything for them!

3/ What is the most enjoyable part of captaining your club?

Other than choosing when I get to go in and bat, seeing your teammates do well.

4/ What was your most memorable win at the club either as captain or before you took over?

Against our fierce local rivals, Hem Heath, we batted first and scraped our way to around 160 on what was a pretty flat wicket and with them being strong in the batting area it didn’t look anywhere near enough but we went on to bowl them out for 45!

5/ What is your main goal as captain?

To see the club progress and in particular see youngsters come through, doing well and enjoying their cricket.

6/ How do you find the format of cricket that you play in your league?

Not too bad. The first innings is limited to 55 overs but you can declare in order to give yourself more overs to bowl the opposition out. It gets a bit boring if the team batting second play for a losing draw but at the end of the day, if you want to win the game you have to bowl them out!

7/ Who is the team badger and why?

Hmmm, tricky one....i’ll have to say Steve Pugh (Pughy). He hasn’t got the most ability in the side but he is definately the keenest of the lot even though he is the oldest! He is always first to the game, his kit is immaculately packed, all his clothes folded nicely and in order that they go on. He even has his own first aid box and everything in that box has got its own place!

8/ What plans are in place as a club to ensure that the success of your side is sustainable?

I’ll find out on Friday night at the EGM!!

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