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Q&A: 2nd XI's James O'Sullivan looks to consolidate in season of transition

Q&A: 2nd XI's James O'Sullivan looks to consolidate in season of transition

David Hickey25 Apr 2023 - 08:16
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MHVCC is publishing interviews with team captains ahead of the new season. Today it’s the turn of the 2nd XI skipper.

MHVCC is a special club because the members are all very welcoming and it has a long standing place in the heart of Mil Hill.
- MHVCC 2nd XI captain James O'Sullivan

First, let’s look back at last season. You were captain of the MHVCC 2nd XI that were champions of Division 8B, winning 14 of 18 matches. Things couldn't have gone much better.
The team did brilliantly and performed way above expectation. To win the league with a game to spare was fantastic.

So now the 2nd XI jump up two divisions to play in Division 7B this season, which starts on May 6. What are your hopes for this year?
In all honesty this time around I'll be happy to avoid relegation. Jumping up two leagues would be a massive challenge normally. However, the core of our team - around six members - have left the club so it will be a transitional year. Avoiding relegation will be a success this time round.

What are your personal goals for the season?
To set an example on the pitch, and hopefully get a few runs and wickets.

What will be the key to having a successful season this year?
Creating a new stable core of the team and also allowing the youngsters to come in and flourish.

Is there anything you’d like to see change around the club this season?
It would be nice to see the new nets get finished, and maybe a lick of paint at the clubhouse!

Tell us about the journey you’ve been on as a captain.
Well, coming in for my second season as captain it's already been a rollercoaster. From avoiding relegation the season before I became skipper to winning the league in my first year [as captain], to now attempting to steady the ship after massive upheaval.

What has being captain allowed you to learn about yourself?
That I'm becoming less patient in my forties, ha hah!

As a captain, what do you think are the most important attributes to being successful?
Understanding your team and being able to connect with players individually and knowing their strengths and weaknesses.

What’s your message for people reading this considering joining a club cricket team near them?
If you love cricket, then go for it! It's very rewarding and a great place to meet people in the community. MHVCC is a special club because the members are all very welcoming and it has a long standing place in the heart of Mill Hill.

Read our interview with 3rd XI captain Philip Smith
Read our interview with 4th XI captain Pryank Patel

An interview with 1st XI captain Dan Potter will be published soon.

Further reading