Bristol and District League on the lookout for representative games
BRISTOL & District are considering approaching other local leagues for representative matches after pulling out of the League Cricket Conference President's Trophy.
The decision was made with a heavy heart, according to Chris Strong, who has managed the league side for the last 15 years after also assisting Mike Regan before that for several seasons.
He said: "Cost is one reason ... we have to find around £250 to put on a home game. Away trips are another matter altogether – last year we went to Shrewsbury and that was £600 for the coach.
"There's no sponsorship and no prize money in this competition. We're also the only league down this way taking part, everyone else seems to be from Birmingham, Manchester or even further north.
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"If we had entered this year, we could well have had two home games and then a possible semi-final in Sunderland and a final in Newcastle if we had got through.
"The other reason is that at one match last season we arrived at 12.30pm and left to come home at 8.30pm ... and we were totally ignored by players and officials from the other side.
"I'm not having our players treated like that, being looked down on."
Strong, though, is keen for the league to continue fielding a representative side and showcasing the skills of outstanding players from local clubs.
He added: "Most years, we will be asked to put out a team two or three times to help a club celebrate an anniversary or to open a ground.
"Our game against Whitchurch for their 90th was washed out earlier this month, but we're now looking to re-arrange that for the middle of September, after the league season has finished.
"We're also at Lodway on July 29, for their 145th. But I think it would be good to play a couple of local leagues if we can, possibly the North Somerset and Somerset leagues, and maybe Shropshire County, who are at a similar level to us.
"It's certainly something we'll be looking at for next season. The players get a lot out of these games, and there's also recognition for the clubs whose lads get picked."
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