Unusually the fickle North East elements, combined with some enterprising cricket, made for a smooth, entertaining start to the 2026 season, promoting the hope of a summer full of quality play for those who value the fine traditions of the Grades game, which has graced the area since 1884.
Long may it continue, as I for one have enjoyed my outings to grounds in settings of varying attraction, but always well received by cricket enthusiasts who just love to talk about the willow on leather game. In fact some of the animated chats I have had about all levels of the games have been during numerous rain breaks in a range of locations in the Aberdeen area.
For example I scarcely imagined I would ever be having a chat at a rain soaked Saturday at Kemnay about Jim Laker’s amazing 19 wicket haul in a Test, over 50 years after it happened at Old Trafford.
I just wonder if in years to come, there will be talk of Alex Keith’s knock of 225, or Fazal Awan’s run of form in the early part of the 21st century. On the international scene will there still be recall of Jimmy Anderson’s boundary catch which denied Michael Leask a possible half century in an ODI at Mannofield.
Let’s hope the memories accumulate this season in which the Grades is looking as healthy as it has done in a number of years, bolstered by the influx of juniors, and women taking up the game.
Personally, I look forward to one of our top teams who include Aberdeenshire, Stoneywood-Dyce and Huntly making a good fist of breaking back into the Eastern Premiership. It’s no more than the area deserves.
Most importantly be sure to enjoy, whether it be in a playing capacity, or just as crucially as spectator.
See you around.