Photo © ECC

On arrival at Billund, the airport for Legoland, Dennis discovered that the shuttle bus to Herning, venue for the recent U15-1st Division Tournament, had been cancelled. Thanks to the helpful airport enquiry staff, however, he still managed to reach his destination on time, using a combination of bus, train and taxi.

Teams from Ireland, Scotland, Denmark and Holland took part in the tournament, with two games each day played at the excellent grounds at Herning Cricket Club. The recently installed Nottingham artificial pitch was getting its first competitive outing and played really well. The tournament was won by Ireland who beat Scotland in the final game. The matches were played in a good spirit with a high standard of batting, bowling, fielding and umpiring. Whilst there, Dennis took the opportunity to carry out boundary assessments on two of the umpires, who impressed him with their knowledge and fieldcraft. He also had time to discuss with Bjarne K Jensen of the Danish Cricket Association the Umpires Project that he is managing. This aims to train to the highest level a pool of local umpires who, in turn, will train and develop their less experienced colleagues.

The hospitality of the Danish Cricket Association and Herning Cricket Club, especially Bjarne and the umpires, Folmer Christensen (Chairman of Herning CC), and members of the club, was very much appreciated. Special thanks to Mrs Christensen who acted as early morning ñ 6.00am ñ chauffeur for the return trip to Billund Airport!