An exciting season of Manx Cricket starts on Saturday with the opening games in the Isle of Man Premiership.
The format is the same as last season with a maximum of 40 overs per side. The winning team takes 20 points and there are also bonus points available for the losing team. One batting point will be awarded for reaching totals of 100, 125, 150, 175 and 200 runs. One bowling point is earned for each two wickets taken.
In the event of a tie, five points go to each team, plus their bonus points. In the event of a game being rained off, five points are awarded to both sides.
In 2014 the Manx Premier League was a big success and is now to be played on five Saturdays spread throughout the season. There are changes in the evening T20 leagues with the Cain catering for the “B” teams of clubs and the Forrester for their “C” elevens.
The Tinker & Blincoe Cups will continue as will the popular six-a-side. There are no ICC Europe tournaments (they are now every two years), but the Island will be making a tour to Ireland.
There are plans for junior divisions at Under 9, Under 11 (both kwik cricket and hardball), Under 13 and Under 15 levels. A squad will again go to the Bromsgrove International Junior Festival.
On Saturday there are three key matches in the Premiership – all starting at 1pm. The big question is whether Peel & St John’s can hold off the challenge of Cronkbourne and retain their title.
The Saints have a tricky fixture at home to Castletown, while Cronkbourne are favourites to beat local rivals Valkyres. Ramsey travel to Marown to meet a Crosby team which is just back from a pre-season tour to Spain.
They played two games against Sporting Alfas Cricket Club of Benidorm, losing the first but winning the second. Highlights were 106 from Ricky Kniveton, fifties from Jack Rowlands and Harry Rothwell, plus a five wicket haul for Joe Rothwell.
Most clubs have been practicing at the nets since January while the Island squads trained all through the winter. Everything is ready for a thrilling season. All we need now is for the weather to behave!
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