Some of what was put in place in 2006 will be followed today - buses laid on for the trip, which began with breakfast at Mill Lane, something which will be repeated in 2022, the shirts and ties are gone but the sense of importance remains.

Nerves also are to be expected. One of the defining memories from 2006 was John Willett and Nigel Kinch, the two most experienced hands, knocking back a pre-match shot before departing Mill Lane to settle their nerves.

Neeves are to be expected. Playing at County HQ is a huge occasion for every club cricketer, especially for those who haven't been there before. Skipper Jake Gillett commented earlier in the week "I'm a terrible waiter, I just want to get out there."

One player at the other end of the spectrum, a member of the 2006 upstarts and 2014 mongies, is Matt Ellis. Ellis will be playing in his third final and has some fantastic memories from both.

"Termite's (Steven Ingram) fantastic spell to Andy Jackman in 2006 stands out from that final", said the seamer.

Sileby were hampered by an injury to another of their young seamers, Phil Chamberlain, with their attack unable to contain a rampant Jackman.

One of the other defining memories from that final for many was a knock of 48 from a 15-year-old Liam Kinch. The youngster was the shining batting light in the Sileby run chase, which would ultimately be fruitless and ended with Ingram setting a new County Cup record with the first 1st baller in the history of the final.

Despite the defeat, it was a long old night at Mill Lane with many more memories made.

Roll forward to 2014 and the Hinckley Town final and four of the 2006 vintage were in the side again, seeking redemption.

Ellis was joined by Kinch Jnr, Chamberlain and the 2006 skipper Ben Cavey as the self-styled 'Mongies' carried off the silverware. Ellis' involvement was nearly instantaneous as he removed the Hinckley main man, Anshuman Bhagawati, which he highlighted as a massive moment in the game.

The end of the game stuck out in Ellis' mind too, taking the final wicket followed by a huddle in the middle. Mates all together as one.

On we move to the latest visit to HQ.

Theres more have not's than have's in the Sileby lineup with Kinch Jnr and Ellis the only constant across the three finals.

"I never thought I'd get this opportunity", said Ruddle. "It means a lot to play for my club and with a great bunch of lads."

Ruddle will be joined in the side by another of the Under 15s national runners up, Joe Charity, with the right hander set to open the batting with Gillett.

Whatever the outcome, the club has come a long way with 8 of the 11 having played junior cricket for the club and the 2022 side having got there the hard way with all of their matches being on the road.

Having drawn the away dressing room, is that an omen? Let's hope so.