Overseas aid in question (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Overseas aid in question

GREAT Alne Cricket Club have announced that Daniel Craig, the club's overseas player in 2002, will once again be joining them this summer.

The Australian, a huge hit with the club's juniors and local school pupils, will once again be heavily involved in the coaching of the younger members.

However, this month's annual general meeting of the Cotswold Hills League could scupper the village side's hopes of fielding the player.

The AGM takes place at Harvington CC on Wednesday, February 25 when discussion will take place regarding the registration of overseas players.

The league's committee has put forward a proposal to limit overseas players to Premier and first division clubs and that could spell trouble for Great Alne.

The club is joining forces with the Warwickshire Cricket Board and will be subsidising a school coaching programme involving local junior schools, culminating in a competition in June.

The club's professional has been fundamental in making this project a success.

The project aims to introduce cricket to pupils who might otherwise not get the chance, while also offering a rare opportunity for tuition from a quality overseas player.

A grant for £3,520 from the Awards for All programme will help the village club stage this ambitious scheme. Contact Craig Millard on 01926 626618 for further details.

John Shepherd (estate agents) have agreed to continue with their sponsorship and they will now become the primary backer.

Opening matches take place on Saturday, May 1 when champions Stratford Bards play host to Broadway.