CRICKET AMALGAMATION

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXIX, Issue 5362, 10 December 1928, Page 2

CRICKET AMALGAMATION

THAMES AND HAURAKL CONFERENCE AT NGATEAThe question of uniting the Thames and Hauraki Plains Cricket Associations was discussed at a conference at •> Ngatea on Friday evening; There were present Messrs 'H. L. Berney, F. L. Wallis, J. G- Miller, and T- McKay, representing Hauraki Plains, and O r - W. Sowerby, Messrs J- M. Fox, F. L. Gibson, and L- Crawford-Watson, representing the Thames Association. Dr. So.werby was appointed: to preside, and in opening called) on Mr Crawford-Watson to detail the benefits to be derived from uniting to ■form a minor association. This body would be the controlling authority for the sub-associations. The proposed association could affiliate with Auckland, and through Auckland With the New Zealand: Council. The Thames-Hauraki minor association would' be in a position, bo challenge for the Hawke Cup, or take part in any other such competition. This wquld be to the benefit of cricket. A minor association (had; some standing, and if the players were available in the district a claim could be made for visits from overseas teams. The scheme of uniting small associations such as Thames and Hauraki had prqved very satisfactory in Taranaki-

Mr McKay asked if it would not be possible to bring in the several Thames Valley associations. Mr Crawford-Watson expressed the opinion that it would tend to un** wieldiness.

Mr Berney stated that the Plains delegates had only been authorised tb seek information and report. . Personally he favoured the suggestion. Mr Wallis said that most of the members of the Plains association favoured the idea. a Mr Watson mentioned that if the association was formed this season a visit from an Auckland team could almost be guaranteed, it might be possible to get a match with Waikato. Mr Berney moved that subject to confirmation by the Hauraki Plains Association, the Thames apd Hauraki Plains Associations unite to form a minor, association.

Seconded by Mr Crawford-Watson and carried.

It was agreed that a further, meeting be held on Wednesday next. MATCHES. Dr. so.werby- mentioned that the Thames Association had a c.up which it was proposed should be made a challenge trophy for inter-association competition among the Thames, Hauraki Plains, Paeroa, and Waihi associations. Paeroa had already entered a challenge.