As the snow on the Bens recedes, (hills - not Mercedes), the trees begin to leaf, flowers are in bloom, the sun is warm to the skin…. Time to spoil spring with the start of the cricket season, no more your long lie ins, your roast beef lunches and your lazy Sunday afternoons ,(although we‘ve had one or two of those in the field over the years!!!).

The club has wintered well and  new summer plumage has arrived for those who ordered. The turn out at nets was impressive, 25 on the second week. 16 Innellan players appeared on a regular basis, another 4 over the piece. Paul Dupre Smith,  Robin Henry and Andy Gilles of Innellan and John Fleming, Peter Woods and David Gray  of Cairndow  contributed to practice on 8 out of 9 occasions each. Of course we reached another landmark in our history by calling off 1 indoor session because of ……..snow!!!

Work parties took care of early season duties outdoors and some practice took place, ironically with snow falling!! The team shed was erected and worry not, there is some space for bottles of Port to be stored!

We begin the season with a visit from our  dearest neighbours, (well most expensive- as far as raffles go!). The Lads from the Lochside, more affectionately known as the Rain Dancers from Cairndow are our First Foot this year and we welcome them warmly.

It is at this time  that we remember the passing of a Cairndow  Legend - Douglas Dando.

Although we were all aware of his poor health, the hope was always that he would be back among us, sadly that was not to be. At his funeral in Inveraray Church, representatives of Cairndow, Innellan, Mid - Argyll,  Vale of Leven and Bute  Cricket Clubs and many Shinty Clubs were in attendance. I’m sure all players will approach today’s game with a mood of celebration of a good friend lost, and produce a game befitting his memory.

The Annual Race Night was held last Saturday night in the Royal Bar and a total in excess of £450 was realised. Just a shame more members couldn’t be there in support of Higgy’s annual holiday fundraiser!!

The ‘Nirmalator’  has returned after his trip home to India, no doubt Higgy will have to wait a while for his subs!! (All dairy products at Somerfield are therefor back to normal, i.e. not on the shelves!!!!)

Although we only have 7 home fixtures this summer at the Castle, it looks a fair old season of locking horns with friends old and not so old.

I believe the Raskelf Tour numbers are rising, with the hard core already picking rooms at The Old Black Bull,  room mates gentlemen, are that of Hobson‘s choice!!!!

It only leaves for me to wish you all well this coming season, enjoy your cricket and the camaraderie, when pulling on the Innellan jersey, wear it, and play in it with pride!

Batsman and Bowler ready?

Let’s  Play!