CRICKET: Ladies cricket at Browns is proving an unqualified success even though they have only had one win to date in the Marsh Norfolk and Suffolk League.

CRICKET

LADIES cricket at Browns is proving an unqualified success even though they have only had one win to date in the Marsh Norfolk and Suffolk League.

The strength of ladies cricket in Norfolk is stronger than Suffolk, but that has not put off the Ipswich-based club.

After two years of playing friendlies, Browns took the decision last winter to enter a league, and home games are divided between Rushmere Sports Club and Kesgrave High School.

Debbie Charman, Browns Ladies' chairwoman, said: "We've got a good mixture of young and older players that includes a number of indoor lady cricketers.

"We've just started to establish ourselves, although we realise that we've got a long way to go. But we're very enthusiastic and have enjoyed every match that we have played against friendly and competitive sides.

"Of course we're keen to introduce more young ladies into the squad as we seek to improve."

Debbie went on: "We're appreciative of the support we're getting from the men's side of the Browns club in terms of umpiring, scoring and setting up.

"The ladies are also benefiting from coaching by Brian Barnard and Australian Brendan Meagher.

"We're wholeheartedly looking forward to the rest of the season and welcome any additional support."

Browns are one of three Suffolk clubs in the league – the others being Easton and Kesgrave/Woodbridge while the Norfolk clubs are Norwich, Great Hockham, Horsford and Yarmouth.

Norwich and Great Hockham are particularly strong and each have four county players.

Browns may have some way to go to catch up, but if enthusiasm is anything to go by, they have every chance.

Any ladies looking to play league cricket should ring Debbie on 01473 403551.

Our picture above shows the Browns Ladies facing the camera before their home game against Norwich at Rushmere Sports Club.

Back row (from left): Andrea McNally, Janet Howlett (captain), Emma Elsom, Jessica Fletcher, Michelle Howlett (mascot), Jill Morris, Cathy Chittock. Front row (from left): Corinne Butler, Sarah Parry, Svenja Winrow, Catherine Norton, Jo Abbott.