As I write this week’s update I’m delighted to say that we have just secured our indoor winter training venues for 2024 at Esher College and Tiffin School (dates to follow). Normally I wouldn’t be so excited about something which I consider “business as usual”, but with so much focus recently on the pavilion rebuild agenda, it’s really important to remember that our cricket is still the most important thing and it still goes on.

I’m also excited our 160th Anniversary Dinner which takes place at the Richmond Hill Hotel tomorrow.

It’s going to be a special event in many ways. Firstly, because it celebrates our long and distinguished history; secondly because it recognises all the individuals on and off the pitch that make the club such a fantastic place to play cricket, rugby and other sports; and finally because it gives us a great opportunity to continue our fundraising efforts with more than 200 members and friends of the club in attendance.

Talking of fundraising, I checked our JustGiving account and our Crowdfunder account earlier today. Regardless of the amounts we have collected in each, we have had almost 600 donations. That’s a justified reflection of the wide reach we have to so many interested parties and stakeholders in and around our community. I thank you all.

Unfortunately I have nothing to report regarding our insurance claim. We have now provided them with all the information they have requested and more. Disappointingly they have told us they are inundated with flood damage claims so we still wait to hear from them.

To all our South Africa and New Zealand rugby supporting members and friends, good luck in Paris tomorrow!