Strathmore Cricket Union Handbook 2003

45 Bert Angus and although all games played in this period were labelled as friendlies they were nevertheless fiercely contested battles in the main against Dundee-based sides. All games were still being played on the North inch but by this time they had moved to the other end of the county ground firstly to a pitch almost where the golf starter’s hut is today. Their final pitch was roughly the same latitude but further over towards the river. Some of the major problems in those days were the cutting, rolling and marking of wickets prior to the game. Another chore that was undertaken by the players was the putting up and taking down of the practice nets. The popularity of golf was another source of annoyance but probably the biggest problem of all was the ever- increasing size of the crowds that were rolling along to support Perthshire. Many were the times when fielders had to battle through spectators standing six or more deep watching a county match and retrieve the ball whilst the batsmen continued to run as no boundaries were ever pegged out. This situation continued until 1940 when one- by-one, players were being called up for service in the second World War. Those who remained went over to Doo’cot Park at the start of season 1941 and played in the combined eleven that was formed and went on throughout the war years and embraced season ‘46. It was with great relief that at the start of season 1947 they were offered the chance to play in Doo’cot Park and Jack Taylor attended a meeting at the offices of Bells and signed the acceptance in the presence of the late Mr Farquharson. This started an association with Strathearn in the Park that has gone on unbroken for the past 32 years and one which we cricketers of today and, I would assume, tomorrow, hope will continue for as long as the game is played. Strathearn were allocated the use of the pitch farthest from the road sharing it on alternative Saturdays with Northern. Mayfield having two teams and having been associated with the Park since its opening in 1925 had sole use of the wicket closer to the Scone Road. This was a beautiful setting for cricket, pleasant, peaceful surroundings, good wickets, a trim outfield and a natural wood pavilion that perfectly completed the tranquil scene for those who partook in this excellent summer pastime. The added bonus of having a groundsman/professional on hand to carry out all the pre and post cricketing tasks did not go unnoticed and if anything made the game just that little bit more attractive to play.