Cricket falls to deluge

CRICKET:

OFFICIALS from the Versasteel Saddleworth and District Cricket League will this week discuss a new date for the opening round of fixtures in the 2012 season.

Following days of heavy rain and with a poor forecast for the weekend it was decided in advance to call off yesterday’s first and second XI matches.

League secretary Trevor Harrison said: “It was the sensible thing to do.

“Clubs wouldn’t have had the opportunity to work on grounds in the days leading up to the new season and more rain was expected. Outfields were already saturated, so in our eyes it was best to hold off for a week.”



ALL of yesterday’s matches in the Lake Garage CLL were abandoned without a ball being bowled.

It is unlikely they will be allocated for a fresh date later in the season.

League secretary Alan Wright said: “There has been an occasion in the past when, before the season has started, it has been obvious that matches would not be played because of atrocious weather.

“Matches were called off in advance then, but in this instance there is no suggestion from the management committee that we will do so again with the season already having started.

“In any case, it would be difficult to find a free date on which to do so.”



DELPH eased to victory at Hall Bower on the opening day of the Drakes Huddersfield Premiership season.

Grant Jones’ men posted 264 for nine, with Arron Lilley recording 80 and new boy Kevin Hook mustering 51.

Adnan Ghaus claimed eight for 20 as the hosts were dismissed for 79.

Delph’s Heavy Woollen Cup first round trip to Wakefield Thornes now takes place this Sunday.

In Lees Brewery Lancashire County League Division One, Woodhouses’ games against Stand and Irlam were abandoned.