Macc looking to bounce back

THE cricket season returns this Saturday and Macclesfield CC are aiming to bounce back to the Cheshire County League, Premier Division at the first time of asking.

Last season the campaign went to the wire with an exciting final game against fellow strugglers Nantwich.

The two teams finished on the same points – however, the Dabbers survived on the basis of one victory more than Macc.

Skipper Rob Porter is determined to oversee a return to the top flight and will be boosted by vice captain Peter Barron’s change of job, which will see him available each weekend.

Joining the first team squad is Aussie Tom Tudor. A student at Melbourne University, Tom made a good impression with a maiden 50 in a warm up match at Nantwich.

The second team finished a comfortable mid-table last season in the Cheshire 2XI Premier Division.

Under skipper Alex Griffiths they will be looking to push on up the league while still giving the younger players at the club vital experience of the tough cricket that the division provides.

Third team cricket was reorganised last season with a pyramid structure being introduced to improve the standard of second and third team cricket across the County.

Under the combined leadership of Karl Burgess and Mitch Moores the thirds finished a very creditable third and, but for a couple of early season melts downs, could have been promoted.

However, this season will be a stern challenge for Burgess and vice captain Miles Horner as they will be competing against the top teams from 2016.

However, it will be a wonderful opportunity for the young players graduating from the Academy into senior cricket to show what they can do.

The fourth team will again be a partnership with the club’s friends at Langley and will provide some excellent opportunities to play competitive Sunday cricket but at a more leisurely pace!

Dave Frame has relinquished the captaincy of the Over 40s and his place is taken by former first team skipper Danny Ackerley. With the talent available they will be hoping to challenge for honours.

The Academy, under the direction of head coach Stewart Garnett, have been practicing hard indoors since January and are now looking forward to getting outside.

The Academy provides cricket for all ages from 7 to 15 and continues to flourish thanks to the hard work of the dedicated coaches.

Stewart is looking forward to seeing continued development of the youngsters, enjoying the game and where possible progressing to representing the County and at the older age range to playing senior cricket.

Off the field, Macc welcome local jeweller PR Jones as the main club sponsor.

Partners Mickey and David are keen supporters of the town’s cricket and rugby teams and are looking forward to their continued involvement at Victoria Road.

A spokesman said: “It would be remiss not to mention the sponsor of the last three years, Chrome Motors, who have been a wonderful supporter of the club.

“We wish them every success at their new Woodford showroom, although links are still strong as the Chrome Motors sponsored car will still be available to the club.”

The 2017 campaign starts with the 1s travelling to Warrington and 2s hosting Nantwich and the 3s Chelford.

All fixtures can be found on www.macclesfield. play-cricket.com