Sheffield Cricket Lovers' Society Year Book 2026

David’s book of memories When Dave Longley stood down as Chairman of the Society in late 2024 after eight years in the post, it was completely appropriate to find a parting gift that reflected his service. No easy task but as heads were scratched his successor, Dorothy Betts, made a suggestion that the committee felt fitted the bill perfectly - a large professionally produced album of photographs taken of David with many of the distinguished guests we have visited us over the years. Every page a memory, eh? It’s good to see him continuing to attend our events, with Sandra of course, and we thank him, particularly for holding the fort during a difficult recent period. Situations Vacant During 2025 we have attempted to remind everyone of the pressing need, both for new (not to mention younger) members, and equally if not more important, volunteers willing to join the committee. As you will be aware our Society is far from alone in this situation. We believe our membership, on the whole, would miss what has become a regular and welcome part of its social life. We also recognise that for some members, for different reasons, it would not be possible to consider joining the committee. But there is a range of skills and contacts in the regular membership that could be used for recruitment purposes if feelers can be put out. You may have friends, relatives, neighbours and so on - not necessarily ardent cricket devotees - who might enjoy some cricket society admin. Voluntarily, of course! They do say that volunteering gives the volunteer back more than they give… We are really looking for a Secretary and a Treasurer, posts that require attendance at a) around eight committee meetings per year which can range from about 60 to 90 minutes each, b) attendance at Society events and meetings, and c) tasks appropriate to the position. There just might be someone you know… Dave speaks tomembers before Dorothy makes the presentation. Acknowledgements… The Society wishes to thank all our advertisers and contributors for their support, without which this Year Book would not be possible. Members are asked that - wherever possible - they will in turn support our advertisers. The editor wishes to point out that the views expressed by the authors of articles are not necessarily those of the Society itself. Designed and produced by 0114 2500 331 welcome@northend.co.uk Clyde Rd, Sheffield S8 0TZ Poetic and prophetic? Former SCLS Secretary, Jon Roddis, has submitted a short poem to us and says, “I was inspired by a passage of play in England’s ODI victory against South Africa at Southampton which I feel will prove to be a seminal moment in the career of Jacob Bethell. Perhaps the Sheffield connections will resonate with our members…” Succession by Jon Roddis A grey Hampshire day, Root and Bethell at the crease, The old and the new. The young man laces a four through the covers, A maiden century. As these two scions of Sheffield cricket embrace, It may not be a changing of the guard, But it sure feels like one. 21