Just what the doctor ordered

OFF TO A FLIER: Oldham debutant Furrukh Bukhari celebrates taking the wicket of ex-Pollards captain Chris McDonnell, who was caught by another new man, Naeem Ashraf.

CRICKET:

OLDHAM captain Dr Zafar Jatoi has been reflecting on a “special and very emotional” derby victory over Royton.

Sunday’s 44-run win at the Paddock was achieved against a player Jatoi regards as his inspiration when he first joined Oldham.

Opening batsman Chris McDonnell may have left Oldham before the current Lake Garage CLL campaign, but his legacy remains.

McDonnell spent most of the last 23 years at the Paddock and Jatoi, the man who succeeded him as Oldham skipper, acknowledged the debt the club owed him.

“This victory was special and also very emotional for us playing against Chris McDonnell and Craig Joy.

“Chris is one of the very best batsmen in this league. He was my inspiration when I joined the club.”

But as far as the Oldham skipper is concerned, there is much to be optimistic about.

New signings Naeem Ashraf and Furrukh Bukhari both made an impact against Royton.

Oldham are also hoping to secure the services of an overseas amateur before Saturday’s game at Rochdale. The player’s identity has not been revealed.

Oldham believe the signing will give the strength in depth needed to achieve the aim of a top eight finish and a place in next season’s Premier Division.



RADCLIFFE are in hot water with the CLL following events on Saturday.

Despite an umpires’ decision that play should begin in their league match against Norden at The Racecourse, Radcliffe refused because they considered the pitch unfit.

The CLL later awarded Norden - who were ready to play - five points and Radcliffe none.

The CLL have also charged Radcliffe with bringing the league into disrepute. There will be a hearing next month.

Just what the doctor ordered


OFF TO A FLIER: Oldham debutant Furrukh Bukhari celebrates taking the wicket of ex-Pollards captain Chris McDonnell, who was caught by another new man, Naeem Ashraf.
KEITH McHUGH



CRICKET: OLDHAM captain Dr Zafar Jatoi has been reflecting on a “special and very emotional” derby victory over Royton.



Sunday’s 44-run win at the Paddock was achieved against a player Jatoi regards as his inspiration when he first joined Oldham.

Opening batsman Chris McDonnell may have left Oldham before the current Lake Garage CLL campaign, but his legacy remains.

McDonnell spent most of the last 23 years at the Paddock and Jatoi, the man who succeeded him as Oldham skipper, acknowledged the debt the club owed him.

“This victory was special and also very emotional for us playing against Chris McDonnell and Craig Joy.

“Chris is one of the very best batsmen in this league. He was my inspiration when I joined the club.”

But as far as the Oldham skipper is concerned, there is much to be optimistic about.

New signings Naeem Ashraf and Furrukh Bukhari both made an impact against Royton.

Oldham are also hoping to secure the services of an overseas amateur before Saturday’s game at Rochdale. The player’s identity has not been revealed.

Oldham believe the signing will give the strength in depth needed to achieve the aim of a top eight finish and a place in next season’s Premier Division.



RADCLIFFE are in hot water with the CLL following events on Saturday.

Despite an umpires’ decision that play should begin in their league match against Norden at The Racecourse, Radcliffe refused because they considered the pitch unfit.

The CLL later awarded Norden - who were ready to play - five points and Radcliffe none.

The CLL have also charged Radcliffe with bringing the league into disrepute. There will be a hearing next month.





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