Victorious Barnes stays grounded

CRICKET: HEYSIDE couldn’t have asked for a better start in the Central Lancashire League — but club skipper Ryan Barnes and his players won’t be getting too carried away.

After almost 60 years in the Saddleworth League, the Little Hey Street outfit has made a high-profile switch to the Lake Garage-sponsored CLL.

Their first game was a tasty home derby against Werneth — which they won by five wickets, largely thanks to South African star Shadley van Schalkwyk’s 148 not out.

Barnes, who was bowled for a duck in the season-opener, said: “It was a great feeling in the dressing room after the game. To get a win on the opening day will give everyone such a lift, but it’s still very early days.

“We bowled really well, and had Werneth’s pro Saliya Saman not been dropped on 14 before he went on to make 127, we would probably have won by a much bigger margin.”

Barnes added: “Everyone was so looking forward to the game. The players were excited before it.

“It’s a pity the cold weather probably put off a few spectators, but those who were there witnessed a great game.”

Barnes didn’t notice a great deal of difference in terms of cricketing standards in the new league, so looking ahead to this weekend’s trip to Radcliffe, he is confident.

“It is hard to judge after just one game,” added Barnes. “Werneth possibly weren’t at full strength.

“We’re gearing up for a tough game at Radcliffe. They have strengthened well over the winter and I reckon they will be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.”