A NEW name will appear in the lower divisions of the Tolchards Devon League in 2018 following a merger between two clubs.
Tiverton CC have joined forces with Halberton & Sampford Peverell CC to create Sampford Peverell and Tiverton CC.
The merger made sense for both clubs who had different reasons for joining forces.
Tiverton, not to be confused with the long defunct Tiverton Town CC, have players but nowhere they could really call a home of their own.
Grounds used by Tiverton since they joined the DCL in 2001 have included Bolham Road, Blundell’s School, a ground share with Culmstock and, since 2014, Tiverton High School.
Along the way there have been previous mergers with Exe Valley CC (2004) and Bickleigh (2006).
Halberton & Sampford Peverell were created in 2002 by the merger of Halberton (formed 1965) and Sampford Peverell CC. The club has a proper home at Whitnage Road, but was struggling for player numbers.
Jonny Chilcott, the chairman of H&SP CC, approached Tiverton opposite number Dane Williams after last season ended to suggest a merger.
It didn’t take long for both clubs to see the obvious benefits of getting together.
“The merger processed very quickly to be honest,” said Chilcott.
“It became clear we at Halberton & Sampford Peverell did not have enough cricketers to maintain two teams due to a large number of the 1st XI squad either relocating or being unable to commit to regular game time.
“We contacted Tiverton about the possibility of merging both clubs and had a players’ meeting outlining where we wish to take the new club.”
There was unanimous support from both clubs for a merger, which led to a formation meeting where captains, committee and a chairman were elected.
Chilcott, who was elected chairman and 1st XI captain of the new club, said the meeting went well.
He added: “We are confident this will create a strong sustainable club and we hope both teams will be at the top end of their divisions.”
Chilcott will lead the 1st XI in the Tolchards Devon Cricket League E Division East.
Brian Chilcott - no relation – will skipper the 2nd XI in the G Division East.
All games will be played at Whitnage Road, Sampford Peverell.
