So the 2024 county team cross a couple borders in the morning to visit our Sussex friends. I remember a few tight matches across a number of divisions over the last 5 years, so we look forward to the challenge. As county manager, I am aware of the enthusiasm within the squad at the start of a season as we all establish where we are at and how the season is going to progress. I am particularly keen on seeing how a number of things play out this year given the changes to the squads. Lee Crowhurst starts his journey as juniors team manager, and I know he is excited about the prospect of a number of his new young recruits. Lee, I am sure, will lead the team well, ably assisted by his new captain and vice-captain, Callum Britt and James Goldsmith, who will lead by example both on and off the table.
Our under 23s are still strong, and with Jasper Simmonds as captain at the helm, I sense another great season is ahead of them. We have integrated some youngsters into the C team this year, and I will look forward to seeing how they develop their games to the standard required at men’s county pool. Paul Cox and Chris Freelove will be guiding the team into battle (well, Sussex), and this fixture is generally a tough challenge. The ladies’ team has a couple of changes too, with people having a break from the game. This, of course, offers opportunity, and we are all excited to see Erin start her ladies’ pool career in earnest tomorrow. I expect the ladies to maintain their dominance across the region.
Our B team, I have a real like about the balance, and in my mind, I’m thinking Farron Rowe supporting Redsull is something that could develop into a force to be reckoned with. Jack Galloway comes straight into the team to add strength, and I suspect people like Jamie O’Donnell and Jamie Gamble are going to start firing up their true potential. Our A team is now led by Dave Fernandez and Jasper Simmonds, and I know the boys in the team respect both these individuals on and off the table. Welcome, Charley McDowell, I’m sure you will make a huge impact across the season. A long-overdue title is what I’m saying here to a team that, let’s be honest, should have won the title at least twice in the last 5 years but never did. The aim is simple, therefore.
Finally, I will be looking to captain the seniors into a season that can deliver success. There is enough talent in this team to deliver success, and we have strength in depth all the way through in this new 11-person format.
So good luck to all tomorrow! Let the Sussex boys and girls know you are there to create a positive atmosphere, and if we do that, I am sure we will return to Kent with much success.
All the best, Wilbo.