Monday 26th August saw the NBCC LGBTQ+ team, led by Darrell, take to the field for the first time, against our friends Rodley CC led by Tom Goodings: two equally matched teams, a great ground, perfect weather, and superb vegan lentil and sweet potato dal and chocolate brownies!
The primary objectives of the LGBTQ+ Team is to give players an insight into league cricket and to allow them to experience playing at that level, so the games are designed to be competitive, and the game more than exceeded this objective.
40 Overs each with NBCC batting first saw us post a very pleasing 210 with contributions throughout the team and some good bowling performances from the younger Rodley Bowlers, with Rodley taking the opportunity to field a team from across a number of their league teams and give players opportunities they may not always get on a Saturday.
We (well myself and Abdullah) tried to help Rodley with quite a few dropped catches, but strong bowling from all of the bowlers and a solid performance in the field saw Rodley held to 188 and a WIN for the NBCC LGBTQ+ team.
Another objective of these games is to highlight the clarity provided by good communication: Rodley were great in letting us know details about the venue, and became the first team this year to ask if we had any dietary requirements and then provide a great tea that provided enough for everyone: well nearly …… appears that everyone loves Emma’s vegan chocolate brownies and I reckon a couple more plates would have been devoured given the chance …. by Darrell, Lachlan and myself alone!
As a club we publish a Match Day page with all the details on relating to the game and set up a WhatsApp Group for every game which allows players to get to know each other and arrange lifts etc.
Simply have to thanks Alex and Liam two excellent league umpires who are very supportive of NBCC and contributed significantly to the day, both on and off the field, to the Rodkey scorer and grounds staff, and of course the true heroes of the day who provided the fuel to keep us all going …. or maybe slow a few of us down even more.
A few drinks after the game with the opposition which was lovely to see as so many NBCC players had long journeys home, then a curry with Tom and Emma to discuss the day (I failed to get the recipe for the brownies!) and to set the date for next year: Monday 25th August 2025 – Same time and place!
