As professionals involved in fulfilling an intensive fixture list each summer there is always a danger that we will become detached from the grass-roots of cricket.

At Trent Bridge, we genuinely try hard to prevent that happening. We recognise the importance of maintaining close links with club cricket and the public in general . . . but that is often easier said than done.

There are times when we become so engrossed in chasing points and travelling from one venue to another that there is little time left for anything else.

But benefit matches are helpful in overcoming the problem because they serve as a reminder that while we get paid for a labour of love, thousands of people up and down the country are working voluntarily for the good of cricket.

No doubt the members of Pelsall have between them spent many hours organising today's game and I sincerely hope they get a successful return for their efforts.

To the best of my knowledge, it's the first time a Nottinghamshire team has played at Pelsall and we are honoured to be invited to take part in the Club's centenary celebrations.

It's always a pleasure to visit fresh places and make new friends and hopefully our appearance at Pelsall will serve more than one purpose.

Primarily, of course, we hope to help make the celebrations a huge success but if we don't manage to strengthen the ties between the two clubs at the same time, I shall be disappointed.

Best wishes.
KEN TAYLOR, Cricket Manager, Nottinghamshire C.C.C.