Moor the merrier

Alex Griffiths: Moorside in 2015

CRICKET: 

IT’S a case of three in and three out as Moorside mount a challenge for Saddleworth and District Cricket League honours in 2015.

Wicketkeeper Alex Griffiths is the stand-out acquisition at Turf Pit Lane, joined by Danny Hesford and front line bowler Kyle Hodnett - younger brother of club pro, Grant.

Hodnett junior is a straight replacement for Glen McFadyean, who has switched to Woodhouses in the Lancashire County League.

Ex-Saddleworth batsman Hesford has come in for Francis Sutherland, who has packed-in cricket because of work commitments, while middle-order mainstay Chris Entwistle has called time on his long career at Moorside.

It is the capture of Griffiths, though, that really catches the eye. The vastly-experienced gloveman has won several trophies at Saddleworth and more recently Uppermill, as well as enjoying a spell at Werneth in the Central Lancashire League.

Moorside used Jamie Dell in that role in the early part of last season before he returned to the North Manchester League, after which Grant Hodnett and Craig Monks were employed behind the stumps.

Skipper Danny Anchor said: “I’ve been pestering Alex for a few years to come here as in my opinion he’s the best ’keeper in the league. He’s a cracking signing with a proven track record.”