worcestershire ccc legend norman gifford was re-elected club president for a second term of a further 12 months at yesterday evening’s club agm.
former county skipper gifford, who picked up 2,068 first class wickets in his career, paid tribute to the firsts team for gaining promotion in the specsavers county championship.
but he also highlighted the contribution of academy coach elliot wilson in helping to develop the conveyor belt of young talent at New Road
gifford said: “it has been a great honour to be president for the past year and i have loved every minute of it.
“we did brilliantly in the 50 over stuff. joe (leach) and kevin (sharp) know we weren’t brilliant in the t20 but the championship cricket was outstanding.
“we went into the last four games of the season needing to win two home matches and we did that and played some very good cricket.
“but, for me, the highlight of the season was going to fortress trent bridge to play a very good side in notts and we played some of our best cricket in those four days.
“it was a brilliant result and it proved to you joe (leach) and all the players that we deserved our position in division one.
“it was a division one performance and then we won our last game at worcester without any problems.”
gifford added: “one of the enjoyments for me as president was going with elliot wilson to see some of the academy boys in action and, believe you me, there are some very talented young cricketers coming through.
“if you get the chance, go and look at some of these academy games because you will be delighted to see some of the talent.
“elliot does a magnificent job and is to be congratulated for the work he does with our young cricketers.
“i’m looking forward to this season and good luck to joe and kevin for the forthcoming season.”
