As we move into February, the cricket season is edging ever closer and hopes remain high at Exmouth Cricket Club that this summer could bring a return to some normality.
While practise sessions are obviously off the menu at present, cricket organisers are preparing fixtures for the summer, although the social side remains very much undecided for the Exmouth team.
“In normal times, we would be doing indoor net practise in readiness for the new season,” said Club Secretary Paul Corder. “We obviously can’t do anything at present but Devon Cricket are certainly planning all the fixtures for the summer.
“Nobody can know for certain what will happen but my understanding is that the current hope is for a normal cricket season.
“April is usually the time for pre-season friendly games but that may come a little soon.
“Even if we do get back playing, the social aspect to local cricket remains uncertain, and we would normally run quiz nights through the winter and general fundraising events for the club.”
One area of the club that must remain in the winter months is looking after the pitch and playing area.
It is a big challenge, particularly during a wet winter, but the hope is that the pitch will be in better shape than ever once players take to the field.
“The playing area will continue to be maintained through the lockdown and the pitch will probably be better than ever this summer, as we obviously didn’t have much cricket last year,” added Paul.
“We only have one groundsman, working on his own, so he is allowed to go down there and keep things maintained, although it is obviously weather-permitting.
“One of the challenges we face, like any sport, is encouraging new volunteers to join the club and help us keep going.
“Most of our current volunteers are well into their 70s, some in their 80s, and we would love to welcome more people along to the club.
“It is a fantastic summer day out when the cricket is on, roll out the blanket and enjoy a picnic while watching proper local sport.”