Meredith backs new league

CRICKET: OLDHAM legend Stuart Meredith has given his full backing to the exciting new Pennine League, though he was sad to see the back of the Central Lancashire and Saddleworth League competitions.

A title winner in both former competitions with Oldham and Hollinwood respectively, former batsman Meredith (pictured) feels progress has to be the name of the game.

He said: “Anyone connected with the CLL or the Saddleworth leagues didn’t like to see them losing their identities, but the memories won’t just fade away.

“It is a good time to move on now, though. Clubs are clearly thinking about the future of the local game with the switch to the Pennine League, and I applaud them for sticking to their guns in that respect.

“I think the switch will be great for local clubs. I’ll be keeping a close eye on how they all go on. I’m looking forward to going watching as many games as I can this summer.”