Victoria Road’s all set for start
AFTER one of the wettest winters and springs in recent memory, Macclesfield Cricket Club return to action this Saturday, as they host Bowden CC.
It has been a busy close season at Victoria Road as the club worked hard to improve both on and off the field. For the first time in more than 25 years, due to changes in the Home Office visa requirements, there will be no Aussie to support the club – a disappointing development as without fail the overseas player has become a valued and integral part of Macclesfield cricket.
However, the club is delighted to welcome back former junior and first team player Khalid Sawas, who will no doubt strengthen the batting.
Rob Porter has stood down as skipper, with captaincy duties being taken on by Chris Moores, with Peter Barron as vicecaptain. Chris and Peter are determined to return the club to the Cheshire County League Premier Division at the second attempt.
Below the first team, Alex Griffiths will lead the 2nds, with Miles Horner taking charge of the 3rds and the 4ths, which will again be a joint venture with our friends at Langley CC, will be captained by Adam Massey. Danny Ackerley remains as Over 40s skipper.
It is an important season for many of the younger players at the Victoria Road.
The under 15s are reigning Cheshire League Champions but those players now need to make their mark in senior cricket.
The strength of the club is reflected in the junior section. Academy age groups have been practicing since January and are eager to step forth on the green grass to test their skills.
Academy head coach Stewart Garnett is excited with the current crop of youngsters, and he is ably supported by the age group coaches. This season there will be four under 11 teams competing in various leagues as well as the other age ranges from Under 9 to Under 15s.
This season the club will be running an under 13s girls team, a really important development as we try to build on the success of the England Women’s cricket team.
Off the field, the MCC continues to thrive, thanks to the excellent support from their sponsors, both large and small. Particular recognition to PR Jones Jewellers, East Cheshire Mortgages, Burns Garage Congleton, and G F Holding Ltd.
Simon Holding has played a pivotal role in the refurbishment of the clubhouse by helping the club to replace some of the seating. That, along with the tremendous efforts of a members, has seen the place revitalised in time for the new season.
A club spokesman said: “As the season commences it is an exciting time for Macclesfield Cricket Club. There is much to do as the club, in common with many other volunteer run organisations, battles with the challenge of the ever increasing complexity of regulation and legislation, but there is a confidence and expectation about the place. We might get some sun!”
New members and supporters are always welcome and can contact through the web site www. macclesfield.play-cricket. com or email macclesfieldcricketclub@hotmail. co.uk