Enderby CC are at Sileby Town CC for their second match of the Premier Division season this bank holiday weekend, with thoughts turning to former player, the late John Willet.
John sadly passed away in March and the two clubs with whom he spent the majority of his cricket journey, will face each other in an emotional game, and a fitting tribute to the former top-order batsman.
John spent the early part of his career with Sileby Town, where he joined son Matt in helping the club on their way to becoming an established Premier Division side in Leicestershire Cricket and appearing in the 2006 County Cup Final.
John was known for his competitive streak on the field and was a huge mentor to many youngsters coming through the ranks at both Enderby and Sileby and was always on hand to offer advice over a beer after a game.
John followed his son Matt to Enderby CC in 2010 and had arguably his most successful period of his career, taking the #CrazyGang up through the leagues, playing with a freedom that was admired by all at the club.
He will be best remembered at the Enderby for his amazing feats in the 2011 Junior League Cup Final where he dominated a Lutterworth attack, hitting a blistering 130 in an opening partnership of 235 with Steve Coulson and earning the Man of the Match plaudits, as Enderby triumphed in style.
During John’s period at the club, they rose from the depths of Division 4 cricket in Leicestershire and now have joined Sileby in the Premier Division, with John’s influence there for all to see at both clubs.
Both clubs will take to the field this weekend for what will be a hugely competitive match, and afterwards they will share a drink with each other, having given their all on the pitch, to honour a great club man at both Enderby CC and Sileby Town CC.