Clubs in the north-east Scotland area assembled at the Woodlands Hotel in Cults on Saturday to celebrate one of the most competitive seasons in the 148-year history of the Grades.
Brian Lynas, the president of North East Cricket Scotland, was delighted to welcome members and clubs to the first annual dinner since 2019 due to the Covid pandemic.
He said: “It was wonderful to see the fine traditions of the association being continued after the savage interruption of Covid.
“This dinner was a way of welcoming back the game, as well as recognising the achievements of clubs and individuals.
“It was an amazing summer, matched by some equally amazing feats most weekends by our members.
“I feel very privileged to have been president in the comeback of cricket in the area.
“I am very confident about the future of the game in the Aberdeen area.”
Title race was pleasing to witness
Lynas was particularly pleased to have seen the Grade 1 title race go right down to the wire, involving three teams, including serial winners Bon Accord and Crescent who last won the top division in 1908.
But it was Knight Riders who earned the honours with their first ever triumph.
Bon Accord had to settle for the Aberdeenshire Cup by way of consolation.
Lynas added: “Well done to Knight Riders. They held their nerve when it mattered.”
Scotland player Michael Leask was among the guests as he presented the end of season awards.
Lynas said: “As a former product of Stoneywood-Dyce and a Grades player his very presence was an inspiration to all our young players.”
Grade 2 was won by Grampian, who also picked up the Bon Accord Cup, while Methlick continue to make progress, adding the Grade 3 title to their list of achievements.
The Bon Accord Cup went to Siyapa.
Awan named player of the year
In the individual honours, pride of place fell to Fazal Awan for his prolific batting performances with Bon Accord.
The popular all-rounder was also voted player of the year, narrowly pipping Trevor Norval to both awards.
The juniors in the game were given recognition in a close fought affair with Gordonians wicket keeper Abhilash Vitthala holding off a strong challenge from an ever growing crop of youngsters, making their way in the game.
His reward was the Jack Nixon Junior of the Year trophy.
The Alan Forbes Memorial Trophy was presented by his widow Jeanette to Ian Stephen for his devoted services to the Grades over the years before he became a board member with Cricket Scotland.
The gathering acknowledged with great sadness, the passing of one of the greats of north-east, Willie Donald, last week.
Donald was imperious batsman with Aberdeenshire and Scotland although never forgetting his roots at Huntly.
Stephen said: “He was great cricketer and an equally good administrator at Aberdeenshire and Cricket Scotland. Most of all he was a fine human being. I was proud to call him my friend.”
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