Captain Banking on Salver service
MATTHEW Brown is confident Tynemouth can build on their encouraging start to the truncated season – and make his first summer as captain a memorable one, writes TONY HODGSON.
The Preston Avenue outfit began their Banks Salver North Group campaign with a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Newcastle.
Brown led by example with a 63-ball 67, sharing in an opening stand of 154 with previous skipper Ben Debnam (79).
Now the opening batter is hoping his side can build on that result when it visits Felling tomorrow – although he knows it will not be easy.
Brown said: “The Banks Salver group we are in is a very tough one.
“We will come up against the likes of league champions South Northumberland and Benwell Hill, who are always difficult to beat.
“However, we have a good squad here which is progressing nicely and I am confident we will do well.
“We have added to last season’s squad with the return of brothers Ben and Dan McGee.
“We will also have the services of Durham’s Michael Jones and Stuart Poynter when their Riverside commitments allow, so we should be strong.”
Brown is relishing new role as captain but was keen to acknowledge the work done by his predecessor Debnam.
He added: “Ben was captain for eight years, which is a long time for anyone to do the job.
“He did a brilliant job in running the team and developing the players and will be a very hard act for me to follow.
“Ben had a bit of a tough time last summer so I was delighted to see him back to his best against Newcastle on Saturday.
“I am looking forward to captaining the side but it is much too early yet to say whether I will be a success.”
The highlight of tomorrow’s games is the North Group derby between Newcastle and Benwell Hill.
The East Group features Philadelphia hosting last season’s Premier Division champions Burnmoor.
On Sunday, there is another derby to savour in the West Group as the Durham Cricket Academy host neighbours Chesterle-Street at the Riverside. TOMORROW’S FIXTURES – Banks Salver, North Group: Blaydon v South North, Felling v Tynemouth, Gateshead Fell v Ashington. Newcastle v Benwell Hill.
East Group: Castle Eden v Whitburn, Eppleton v Sunderland, Hetton Lyons v Boldon, Philadelphia v Burnmoor.
West Group: Burnopfield v Crook, Sacriston v Willington, Washington v Lanchester. Playing Sunday: Durham Cricket Academy v Chester-leStreet.