LONDON-N.Z. CLUB

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29108, 21 January 1960, Page 6

LONDON-N.Z. CLUB

Dominion Branch Formed

‘‘The Press" Special Service WELLINGTON, Jan. 19. A New Zealand branch of the London-New Zealand Cricket Club was formed in Wellington last evening. The club, a social body, will play matches against other teams in New Zealand during the cricket seasons. The first of these will be against the Erewhon club, at Heretaunga, on February 14. "One of the most vital things in England to a New Zealander is the London-New Zealand Cricket Club,” said Mr J. H. Phillipps when moving the formation of the branch. Mr Phillipps, manager of the New Zealand cricket teams to England in 1949 and 1958, said that it was vital to preserve the link in this country. Three years ago an attempt was made to form a local branch, but nothing had been done about it. Social Clubs “We lack in New Zealand good social cricket clubs,” Mr Phillipps said. He thought that a great service could be done to New Zealand cricket by the club. He said he hoped it would he possible to arrange a match with a GovernorGeneral’s XI, either this year or early next year. Lord Cobham had expressed his interest in the club. Mr Phillipps thought that perhaps several matches could be played each season. “We don't want to be merely a social club, but we could not play each week-end, as the club in London does.” he said. There was a fair attendance at the inaugural meeting, but, altogether, a total of 118 have expressed their interest in a New Zealand branch. About 40 per cent, of these live in Wellington. Many apologies for absence were received, including more from the Prime Minister (Mr Nash), who expressed his great interest in the club, and Sir Sidney Holland. Draft rules following closely on the lines of those of the parent body in London, were approved. Officers elected were:—

Chairman, Mr J. H. Phillipps; secretary, Mr N. Farrell; treasurer, Mr S. L. Spiers: committee, Messrs J. B. Blundell, D. A. Phillips, L. Brown, and W. M. Curtis.