On Sunday Norfolk Premier head to Daventry IBC to attempt to lift the I.C.C Premier title for the third time. Recent years have seen Norfolk firmly establish themselves as one of the top county teams in the country and once again will do battle with old rivals West Mids in the much anticipated final that is sure to be entertaining. Norfolk Premier last won the title in 2015/16 with Selwyn Goldsmith as Player-Manager and previously won the title way back in 1995/96 during George Clarke’s time as Manager. This time Simon Willies (pictured) will lead Norfolk into the final as Player-Manager after his many years as part of the West Mids team. The West Mids only play short mat bowls one way, and in a way that has troubled various opponents in the past. But with the close relationship that exists between the NCSMBA and the WMSMBA the game is sure to be played in a loud but sporting manner. This will be the 27th time the Premier I.C.C has been contested and it is surprising that over that time only six counties have lifted the title. Staffordshire were the very first champions in 1992/93 and went on to win it twice more but sadly no longer take part. West Mids have won it five times and have held on to the title for the last two seasons so are looking to make it three in a row. Kent won the title seven times, with their legendary Manager Ted Messer going on to manage the England team, but their last win was way back in 2004/05. Cheshire reeled off eight successive championships wins from 2006/2007 to 2013/14 when they were considered almost unbeatable until their shock defeat against Hampshire in the 2014/15 final. That proved to be Hampshire’s only title while Cheshire has since lost their veneer of invincibility. Also being played this Sunday will be the Premier Consolation Final between West Sussex and Somerset, the “A” Team Final between West Mids “A” and Buckinghamshire and the “A” Team Consolation Final between Dorset “A” and Essex “A”. A coach will take the Norfolk Team and supporters to Daventry and will leave Attleborough Queens Square at 6.30am on Sunday 17th March. Any spectators who wish to travel to Daventry on the team coach should contact Keith Cooke on 07704918562 to check availability, spectators’ seats are available at only £5 which is a bargain for a return trip to Daventry to see four I.C.C Finals. Hot lunches will be available at the venue to purchase at a reasonable price.
