MHVCC 1st XI's Dan Potter: 'It is all about whether we can consistently score big runs'

First, let’s briefly look back at last year. You were captain of the MHVCC 1st XI that were crowned champions of Division 5B on the final weekend of the season after winning nine successive games, an incredible winning run ...
It was obviously so satisfying to win the league and get promotion and I now feel we have some really positive momentum to keep moving up the leagues. The first half of last season was symptomatic of how previous seasons have gone – some good results and then a really poor batting display. But for whatever reason something clicked in the second half of the season and we showed we were the best team in the league. I want to see more of that this season!

What are your hopes for the 2023 season, which starts on Saturday, May 6, where MHVCC 1st XI will be playing in Division 4B?
I’m under no illusions this league will be a step up. Two of the teams we lost to the season before who were promoted from our league have not managed promotion in this new league. We will need to raise our game if we want to challenge the top of the table, but I’m confident there is plenty more potential in this team. If we get a few new contributions and some of the older guys having a good season then why can’t we get back to back promotions?

What goals do you have for the 1st XI this season? What will success look like for the team?
As a team I would love us to challenge for the title. But bigger picture, I am really keen to see everyone achieve their best. That means getting some of the more experienced guys to show their undoubted potential in a higher league and for some younger guys to come through and prove they are first team players.

What will be the key to having a successful season this year?
Our bowling is usually up their with the best in the league and so it is all about whether we can consistently score big runs. That means contributions from the whole team. We will need to show patience and value our wicket – batting gets easier if you stay in for a while!

What are your personal goals for the season?
I want to be top scorer in the league this year, although I know there are some really good batsmen in this league who score big once they’re in. I need to make sure to convert fifties into hundreds – big scores are required! [In 2022, Potter scored 505 runs at an average of 42.08, with a top score of 85 not out and five fifties in 13 outings.]

Tell us about the journey you’ve been on as a captain. What have you learned about yourself?
To be honest, the captaincy has been really good for me. I didn’t see myself as a natural captain - I’m certainly not as vocal as our previous captain. However, I can now see there are many different ways to lead a team and you need to do what works for you.

What are the most important attributes to being a successful captain in your view?
You need to take your responsibility seriously. You need to listen to your players and the wider club. Team spirit is vital and can only be achieved if everyone feels like they are part of the team and being listened to. That’s probably my main aim for every match day.

Is there anything you’d like to see change around the club or the Saracens Herts Cricket League this season, compared to last (or recent seasons)?
I think we have a fantastic club at Burtonhole Lane, that’s why I’ve been playing here since I could walk. However, the club is way too reliant on a few individuals to keep it going and give up their own time. I would love to see more people putting their hand up to ask how they can help. A few small contributions would go a long way.

What in your view makes Mill Hill Village Cricket Club a special club?
The clubhouse doesn’t look up to much and the facilities aren’t always great, but that would be missing the point. It is special to see the buzz generated on a match day at the Village, the old clubhouse comes alive. Not to mention that on a lovely summer’s day, it is hard to find such a glorious setting for a game of cricket in and around London. The club has had some tough days, but is certainly on the rise and we’re all really excited about the future.

What’s your message for people reading this considering joining a club cricket team near them?
Just get involved! These days it is so easy to stay at home and use our time passively, but the benefits from getting outside and particularly team sports are massive. It is a fantastic opportunity to meet some new people that you wouldn’t otherwise have encountered.

Any other thoughts?
I just want to call out the incredible work that Amenities Director Pete Jaffe, Director of Cricket/lead coach Phil Smith and Finance Director James Thompson do to keep this club going. For any of our members, please do ask how you can help. The most minor of jobs is immensely valuable. Otherwise, it's just to say how excited I am for the new season. I look forward to seeing everyone down at the club in the coming weeks – come and say “hello”!

Mill Hill Village 1st XI start the season on Saturday, May 6 away at Harpenden 3rd XI. For more information on fixtures, click here.

Read our Q&A with 2rd XI captain James O'Sullivan
Read our Q&A with 3rd XI captain Philip Smith
Read our Q&A with 4th XI captain Pryank Patel