Cricket

Triple blow for Carter Cup

Carter Cup organisers are hopeful that the 41-year-old competition still has a bright future despite three clubs dropping out next season.

At Monday's AGM, Bradfield, Mundford and Great Melton all withdrew from the

60-over competition in 2010, citing a lack of playing strength on Sundays.

Competition chairman John Bettridge said changing social patterns were leaving many players unable to commit to two games of cricket at the weekend and added: "It is not a problem that is particular to our competition, or even our region, it is happening nationally and people are reluctant to commit as much time as they have done in the past.

"It is a long time since we've had a draw with three byes in and that in itself is quite disappointing."

Offsetting the loss of those three clubs is the arrival of Alliance newcomers Hardingham as new members and Bettridge remained hopeful that the competition, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2008, would survive the current difficulties. He said: "Hopefully what will happen is that these clubs have a strong youth policy and as that youth comes forward and develops, they will demand to be playing at a level of competition to test their skills, at which point these clubs can seek to re-enter.

"The structure of youth cricket in Norfolk is excellent now and I would guess there are more youngsters playing the game than ever before. The requirement is to retain that interest and that is what we have tried to do by introducing the Junior Carter Cup at Under-17 level."

The meeting also saw a proposal passed to change the Lady Mary Trophy to a Twenty20 competition on a one-year trial.

Previously, clubs knocked out of the Carter Cup at the first round stage dropped into a 45-over competition, but a new format has been agreed, based loosely on the national Twenty20 Cup competition. Participating clubs will be divided into four zones, with each zone's matches taking place on one day. The winners from each zone will then progress to a finals day, featuring semi-finals and the final itself.

Bettridge said: "We felt there has been a situation over the last few years, with no disrespect to the clubs, that there has been a diminished interest in the minor competition and we wanted to offer them something different and see what the reaction is. What it boils down to is that clubs involved are only committed to two Sundays as opposed to four."

Brian Broom stood down as competitions secretary after 24 years in the role, with Graham Richardson taking over his duties, although Broom will remain on the committee. Hales captain Steve Rowe was also elected onto the committee.

Next season's first round draw sees a repeat of this year's final, as Norwich face East Anglian Premier League rivals and reigning cup holders Swardeston.

n Any clubs wishing to fill the vacant places in the 2010 competition should contact John Bettridge on 01508 530350 or email johnbettridge195@btinternet.com