The creation of a new 4th XI for senior cricket is a big step forward for Hartlepool CC and signifies a commitment to providing senior cricket for as many members as possible. However, the nature of the 4th XI in terms of selection and targets is very different so wanted to provide a bit of an oversight.

Aims
For the other teams within the club, the aim is very simple – silverware. Whether that be league titles or cup wins, the target is always the same. For the 4th XI, silverware would be an added bonus but is not the primary aim.

The aim is to provide junior players experience of senior cricket in a supportive, competitive, environment. Unless a player has represented Cleveland Schools or Durham County, they will not have played matches longer than 20 overs a side.

The transition to playing 40 overs, or 50 overs for 1st & 2nd XI cricket, can be a difficult hurdle to overcome – players may have the burden of expectation on their shoulders (regularly scoring runs for junior teams so should be able to replicate at senior level for example).

The 4XI will provide an opportunity for players to learn how to adapt their game to a longer format, play against players who have more experience, better techniques and are more powerful; but still at a level where junior players can succeed.

Team Selection
The majority of the 4th XI will be comprised of Junior players with only enough senior players to provide experience, guidance, and potentially transport. As Captain, I see myself only bowling if required to regain a little control in the match and batting in the lower middle order to provide a little stability (I may be overplaying my own abilities here but forgive me a little self–promotion).

The Senior players will seek to stabilise team performances, should the match circumstances dictate. The majority of the overs will be bowled by Junior players; Junior batters will bat high in the order. Players may not be selected every week – I want to rotate players so there will be some changes.

Note: being an all-rounder at Junior level does not automatically mean you’ll be an all-rounder for the 4th XI.

Captain’s Expectations
I think it beneficial to prospective Junior players that may play in the 4th XI to outline my expectations.

General
• Respect the opposition and apply the “Spirit of Cricket”
• Respect the Umpire and their decisions
• Pay your match fees before the game – no excuses.
• Inform me of your availability/unavailability in good time - respond to team selections.
• Play where picked – you play for the club, not a specific team.

Batting
• Value your wicket.
• Look to score, pace your innings, important to “rotate the strike” - there will be fewer bad balls so it is important to learn how to find the gaps to pick up singles
• Run hard – put pressure on the fielders
• Communicate – make sure your partner knows what is happening, not just the initial call but also as you pass each other. Is it only one, are you pushing for more runs?
• Run outs happen. If it is a direct hit then so be it, the fielder has done their job well. If it is a communication error that’s unforgivable.
• Be aware of the whole field – what is the bowler trying to do with the ball? Which fielders are slower? Which fielders are left or right handed?
• Don’t get frustrated – not every good shot scores runs.

Bowling
• Understand what field you want – I’ll help you set fields but over time I expect you to tell me what you want.
• Maintain discipline. Cut down on extras and try to make the batter play. Bowl to your field.
• Don’t get frustrated – not every good ball takes a wicket.
• Communicate with me – chances are you’ll be bowling a longer spell than usual, perhaps 5 or 6 overs, it may be you are asked to come back for a second spell. I need to know if you’re getting tired.
• Support your fielders. Nobody intentionally drops a catch or mis-fields. We are a team. We work together. We support each other.

Fielding
• Concentrate – 40 overs is a long time in the field. It’s important that you remember where you are fielding for each bowler/batter.
• Back your bowler – they’re relying on you to stop the runs and build pressure
• Try your best. Chase hard. Put your body in the way if necessary. Attempt the catch
• Support your teammates. Do you need to go half way? Get the throw to the keeper/bowler’s hands not their ankles.
• Concentrate – this is key so worth repeating. Switch off between deliveries but make sure you’re ready when the bowler starts their run.

Player Expectations
I think the last section to cover is what the players can expect from me.
• Opportunity – whether it is batting or bowling, I’ll try to give everyone an opportunity but please note this will not always be possible (game situation will dictate).
• Support – I’ll encourage players and offer advice/guidance during games if appropriate.
• Honesty – If there are areas I feel a player needs to work on then I’ll tell them. If they haven’t been selected then I’ll tell them why.
• Approachable – If a player has an issue they want to discuss then come and speak to me. Talk to me and we can look to resolve it; whinging to others gets neither of us anywhere.
• Communication – I’ll use the website (www.hartlepoolcricketclub.com) for Team Selections and communication. I’ll probably select a couple of reserves each week to cover drop-outs/call ups.
• Enjoyment – Playing should be fun. We play to win, we play to improve, but mostly we play for enjoyment.