While he was a Yorkshire man through and through, he was also often seen at former player days at Derbyshire. I met him at Chesterfield last year and enjoyed a fairly lengthy conversation with him. He was as engaging as I hoped he would be and the game has lost one of its great characters, as well as one of its greatest umpires.
My condolences go to his family and close friends. May he rest in peace, as one of those people who transcend the game of cricket.
Elsewhere, there is a terrific interview - as always, since he is very articulate - with Daryn Smit on the club site, which you can see here
Daryn and his coaching team have had a stellar season and you can sense his pride in the efforts of the youngsters coming through. It is well worth a watch.
Finally, I am delighted that Worcestershire won the Metro Bank One Day Cup, albeit in a rain-shortened match against Hampshire. They have played some terrific cricket and fully deserved their success.
Yet for me it is important to realise that there is little between them and Derbyshire. Both the white ball games between the two teams were close this year.
If Worcestershire can win a trophy, why not Derbyshire?
A big well done to Worcestershire and not forgetting other domestic achievements for Leicestershire, Glamorgan and Somerset . Lots of whining from the bigger counties relating to scheduling and overlap with England fixtures . . Also in 2024 Gloucestershire and Glamorgan took the white ball honours . It proves it can be done but for now let’s finish with a win as 3rd would be motivational for the group and something to build on .
ReplyDeleteSad to hear about Dickie. They don't make umpires like him anymore, lovely guy and a real character of the game. RIP
ReplyDelete