I took on my first season of 1st XI captaincy last season and I can agree with everything that’s been said before me. It’s tough, on and off the pitch. I’ll try not to repeat too much, but here are some important points:
Delegate: I had just finished uni and had time to spare so I was first in, last out every single Sat and got burned out. Delegate tasks like roller, stumps, sightscreen, discs to others, on a rotation perhaps so it’s fully shared about perhaps by 5 guys one week, 5 the next. It’s SO much more efficient. There’ll likely be ex-captains in your side who know what it’s like and who’ll be happy to lend a hand.
Communication: I was the youngest player in the team so this was important for me. As others have said, treat others the way you’d expect them to treat you. There will be guys you won't always see eye to eye with, but listen to what they have to say, accept you won’t get everything right, and just back your instinct.
Giving Others ‘A Game': I had 6 guys who played most weeks and had a few ringers each week. Age-old debate - do you give people ‘games’ in 1st XI cricket at a decent standard? It was my first year, and not wanting to disappoint those doing me a favour, I did so about 90% of the time. Whilst I don’t think it completely changed certain results, it was tough for me as instead of batting 3/4 and bowling 6+ overs, I’d bowl myself as a last resort and bat 6-7 30% of the time. In hindsight, it wasn't always the right decision - remember you're paying the same as they are. All I’ll say is just go with what you honestly think you should do in the situation, but keep those drifting through the game ‘involved’ as much as you can. At the very least, if you buy them a drink or two in the bar, they won’t mind!
Just Enjoy It: It’s not easy, but you’re playing the game you love with your mates. It’s club cricket - no-one’s expecting Brearley-like decisions or Churchillian speeches. Play it the way you want to, back your decisions, back your teammates and if you get some runs / wickets yourself in a winning cause, there’s no better feeling.
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Topic: New Captain Advice (Read 5954 times)