A lifetime hobby

Sixty years ago in July, a young boy accompanied his father to a cricket match for the first time. Little knowing that visit had created a hobby and interest that would last him a lifetime. 

Nineteen years ago I created this blog, the first post going out on April 4, 2008. Again, little did I know that it would grow from something I hoped would help me to get to know a few other fans of the county, to something that has now exceeded 6.25 million visits. In the intervening period I have got to know so many people, made very good friends and have always been grateful that those on the field and off it have treated me with courtesy.

I like to think that I have always been fair. When there has been a need for criticism, I have always avoided personal comment and try to remember that all those lucky enough to wear the county colours have families and feelings. In that nineteen years I have come to know mothers, brothers, fathers, sisters, relatives and friends of players and I remain both proud and flattered that no one has ever taken exception to what I have written. Or approved as a comment on here, for that matter.

Let's face it, everyone has off days, in whatever job they do. Sportsmen and women are no different. This summer, like all of those that have gone before it, I will endeavour to be honest in my reporting on the county, but also appreciative that everyone is doing their best. Sometimes that will not be enough and regardless of the sport, supporters need to realise that there are occasions - there will always be occasions - where the other team is simply better, or someone plays a 'blinder'.

It doesn't change anything. Derbyshire could have a spectacular summer, gain promotion in red ball cricket, make Finals Day in the Blast. Then again they could flatter to deceive and fall short.

Yet I will still continue to support and will until the day when I shuffle off this mortal coil. There is a wind of change blowing through the game, not one that I am especially enjoying. Yet the reality is that restructuring might one day see county cricket drop below the 'joys' of the franchise game, in the opinion of the suits at Lord's. 

Broadly speaking, it will not matter to me. This summer I will be in front of my TV for as many streams as family holidays allow. I will also be at Derby and Chesterfield for four nights each, in May and June. A sixtieth anniversary deserves some recognition, I think, so I look forward to strolling around two grounds that have created so many wonderful memories, meeting up with friends old and new, hopefully making some more.

If things go to plan, I might also do a later season trip, either to Derby or an away game, depending on our fortunes in between. But I will guarantee to continue the blog, enjoy your comments and thank you for your involvement.

Nineteen years ago, I never thought this would still be going strong.

Then again, sixty years ago I had no idea what lay ahead of me when I went to see Derbyshire play Yorkshire at Queen's Park. Apart from an ice cream and a go on the train that circles the lake, during the lunch interval.

As hobbies go, mine has given me good value.

I will be back in the next few days with my red ball season preview. 

I hope you look out for it.