With the new league season only 4 weeks away we had a chat with the new First XI captain Joe Atkinson.
Joe Atkinson
“I am very excited about being given the opportunity to captain KCC for the 2022 season. This will be my fourth season at the club and in that time, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed seeing the 1st XI develop and experiencing the atmosphere at the club with the players from all of our teams and also all of the volunteers who give up their time to run it for us.
Last season was extremely positive for the 1st XI, putting in some excellent performances and winning eight of our eleven win/lose games. The highlight of these were the away wins at Handsworth and Nuneaton and the home wins against Hampton & Solihull and Standard.”
With a new Second XI captain Dave Smithson and successful Third XI captain Steve Kelley looking to continue from last years success, Joe Added:
“The 2nd XI also had a solid 2021 chasing promotion for the vast majority of the season and the 3rd XI were promoted from the 6th Division of the Cotswold Hills League. As a club, we have a lot to forward to in this coming year.”
Continuing on the First XI season.
“I am pleased to say that Connor Shingler will be vice-captain, which is vitally important as we look to learn from and build on the last few seasons. Having Connor back fit and available after his hamstring injury is a massive boost for the club and has done a fantastic job over the last couple of years creating a positive culture throughout the club.
First team modelling the new training Kit with Ted from The Engine
We’ve got an excellent and tight knit group of local players that have built up a lot of character and grit, which will stand us in good stead in tough times during the season. Most importantly, the lads play for each other, and we enjoy each other’s company on and off the field.
Our aim is to play tough cricket, be hard to beat, and see if we can surprise a few and get in amongst the top sides in the league. Our senior players are instrumental to this and it means we can take the responsibility off the less experienced lads to ensure they enjoy the environment and remain hungry to put in big performances.
We are also blessed with a couple of extremely promising younger players who will be given 1st XI opportunities this season.”
Outdoor nets for 2022 start this upcoming Wednesday 23rd March.
Finally, Joe echoed the thoughts of all of the club.
“I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible down at the club throughout the season supporting the lads and I am personally looking forward to a full summer of cricket for all of the teams.”
