Greenfield told to replay cup tie

THE Tanner Cup semi-final between Greenfield and Uppermill is to be replayed.

Following new evidence provided by Uppermill, the Saddleworth and District Cricket League committee found irregularities with the medical certificate explaining the absence of Greenfield pro Kamran Hussain.

Delph’s overseas player Bilal Khiljee replaced Hussain and Greenfield won the game.

Instead of facing Bamford Fieldhouse in the final on Sunday, they must travel to Uppermill on Sunday, August 22.

They have also been told they are not allowed to field a pro.

The date of the re-arranged final is yet to be confirmed.

A spokesperson for the committee said: “This was a difficult decision to take but Uppermill provided telling new evidence relating to the irregularity of the medical certificate.

“The committee felt that both Greenfield and the Saddleworth and District Cricket League had been duped.”

Bamford Fieldhouse chairman Andy Barton offered his help to the process.

He said: “We support what is being done because things have to be carried out properly. This is the best way forward.

“Obviously it’s a shame the final can’t be played on Sunday, and we had everyone fit and ready.

“But it’s important to do things right and we will just wait to see who we will play in the final.”

League officials have already indicated they would like to tighten up rules governing deputy professionals.

The committee plans to table a set of proposals at October’s annual meeting in light of the Tanner Cup situation.

Uppermill and Greenfield both declined to comment on the committee’s decision to replay the semi-final.


MORE CRICKET and SCOREBOARDS: see tonight’s Chronicle or read the E-Chron online (subscription required) — click on the E-Chron link