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 Johnny.
When did you first become a member of Yorkshire County Cricket Club?
“I became a full member of the Club when I retired from work in 2009. Having followed Yorkshire since I was a boy, I wanted to spend all summer watching this great County of ours and have enjoyed every minute so far.”
What are your first memories of Yorkshire County Cricket Club?
“My first memories go back to the early sixties when I used to open the Bowling for Harrogate in the York Senior League and occasionally in the Yorkshire League.
What is your fondest memory of Yorkshire cricket?
“I was helping Bert Wilson the groundsman in his first ever County match at St George’s Road, Harrogate. We were playing Glamorgan in September of 1962, and a win would clinch the County Championship.
“Fred Trueman opened the Bowling and half way through his first over asked for pitch to be measured!
“I walked out with Bert and his chain and I can assure you he was extremely nervous.
The ground was packed with 11,000 people and having put the chain under the middle stump at one end Bert walked down the pitch not knowing there was a “knot” in the chain.
“He told me afterwards that he almost died when he got to within two yards of the other end of the pitch when the chain pulled up.
“We undid the knot and placed the chain under the middle stump.
“The crowd erupted, and Fred shook Bert’s hand and patted me on the back. That evening in the bar Fred bought us both a pint and a friendship was forged between him and Bert which lasted for years.
“Yorkshire won the match and the Championship, and I could go on forever about the details as it was an amazing game which has always been a fond memory.”
What is your favourite ground and why?
“Naturally Harrogate is my favourite ground having played there for eight years with Harrogate.
“My favourite ground now is Headingley which I believe is about to become one of the most iconic cricket grounds in the world.
“The improvements we have made and the effort and skill which has gone into its planning speaks for itself. We have people running our club who are superb.”
Who is your favourite current player and why?
“My favourite player is without doubt Tim Bresnan who has shone so much for us for so many successful years.
“Whenever I go to Scarborough I always stop at the Crown Spa Hotel where the team stay.
“They are always so approachable and friendly, especially Tim who personifies my personal enthusiasm and keenness for success.”
Yorkshire supporters are known for being very passionate about their county and cricket team, would you put yourself in that bracket?
“I guess you will know by now that I am very, very passionate about our wonderful club which is second to none.”
What are you most looking forward to during the 2019 season?
“The 2019 season I think will be a rebuilding season with new faces bedding down and getting ready for big things to come.
“I am particularly looking forward to the World Cup and the Ashes being shown to the rest of the world when they all sit up when they see the new Emerald Stand and say in unison “WOW”.
Which young player in the current squad do you think will breakthrough next year and why?
“I think Harry Brook is a young man to watch and he will definitely make his mark in 2019.
“I also genuinely feel that Ben Coad could well find himself in an England squad in the not too distant future.”
Want to take part in the next edition of ‘Members Mondays’? Get in touch with us at [email protected].
