Yorkshire Cricket is regarded as one of the greatest clubs in the world, and as one of the proudest in existence. Established over 150 years ago, the history, tradition and passion of its Members are the main reasons for this. The pride of the Club’s supporters has always been evident.
To celebrate the Club’s fantastic supporters, we bring you a feature looking at memories of some of the White Rose Members. This week we hear from Gary.
When did you first become a member of Yorkshire County Cricket Club?
“I became a full member in 1982 after I left the Royal Navy. When time allowed in the Royal Navy, I followed the team when they played at grounds such as Southampton, Portsmouth, Basingstoke and Lord’s.”
What are your first memories of Yorkshire County Cricket Club?
“My first memories are of being taken by my Grandad to watch the Gillette Cup Semi Final at Scarborough in 1969 when I was 11 years old. The weather that day was scorching hot, the crowd was huge with people sat on every available blade of grass right up to the boundary ropes… and Yorkshire won!”
What is your favourite ground and why?
“Headingley is my favourite ground, it holds such great memories from both test and county games… I never tire of attending games at our County Headquarters.”
Who is your favourite current player and why?
“My favourite player is Jonny Bairstow. His attacking and determined style of play is a joy to watch and he is such an excellent team player. England’s gain is definitely the county team’s loss!”
Yorkshire supporters are known for being very passionate about their county and cricket team, would you put yourself in that bracket?
“I am very passionate about the team and although there have been some very lean years watching the county during my membership, my support will always continue.”
What are you most looking forward to during the 2019 season?
“I am looking forward to attending all days of home cricket in all competitions in 2019. In particular I am looking forward to watching the team play at York, an out ground I have never visited previously.”
Which young player in the current squad do you think will breakthrough next year and why?
“The introduction of Jonny Tattersall to the team in 2018 was a pleasant surprise. His batting and wicketkeeping in all forms of cricket were excellent and I am looking forward to him really establishing his place in the team in 2019.”
How do you see the 2019 season going for Yorkshire CCC?
“I am very positive about how the team will perform on all fronts in 2019. We have a mainly young team and it will be interesting to see how they all develop. I would like to see us reach a one-day final, something which has been quite rare during my time as a member. This would give all supporters something to really look forward to.”
What is it about the experience at Emerald Headingley and Scarborough that makes it a good place to visit for you and your family?
“The experience of watching county cricket at Headingley and Scarborough is a good one but hopefully it will be even better once the new stand is open at Headingley. Although member facilities could be better at Scarborough, there is a magic about the ground which will keep people attending games there for years to come.”
