NACO Invitation Cup and Shield Competitions
NORFOLK ASSOCIATION OF CRICKET OFFICIALS INVITATION CUP/SHIELD.
Following the demise of the Biss Trophy/Rose Bowl at the end of the 2008 season, the Norfolk Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association was approached to continue to run a similar 50 over competition.
A committee comprising of Ken Ellis, John Moore and Barry Toombs was set up to produce a set of rules (a copy of which is published in the Norfolk Cricket Board Handbook). It was felt that we should have a representative of the Clubs on the committee and to this end Rob Austin of Old Buckenham was invited to join.
A meeting was then held with the prospective Sponsor, to agree the manner in which the Competitions should be run, and it was agreed that the teams competing in the Cup/Shield must comprise of 10 players who are qualified to play for England. No prize money would be awarded but cricket bats would be awarded to the Man of the Match in both finals.
Trophies for winners, runners-up, scorers and umpires in the finals would also be made.
Barry Martin, representing Clowes Nash Auctions Limited, then agreed to sponsor the competition for the next two years with an option for a third year. We are most grateful to Barry for this fine gesture.
A meeting was then held for representatives of the Clubs who had accepted our invitation and the unseeded draw was made.
Upon meeting with Hunts Bats Limited to purchase the bats, we received an approach from Steve Turnock, who wished to become involved to the extent that he offered to supply the match balls for both competitions in 2009. We are most grateful to Steve and Hunts County Bats Limited for making this very generous offer, which we are happy to accept.
The two finals will be staged as follows:
Cup at Great Witchingham 6th September 12 noon start
Shield at Old Buckenham 30th August 12 noon start.