Mawdesley becomes home of the Masters
AHOST of former England International cricketers descended on Mawdesley Cricket Club last Friday to help the club celebrate the 120th Anniversary of their entry into league cricket.
The PCA Masters, lead by exEngland One Day captain Adam Hollioake, started the day with a coaching session for the club’s junior players.
They then enjoyed a three course lunch alongside 260 marquee guests, before taking to the field to face a Mawdesley Select XI made up of club members and invited friends.
Guests of honour Sean O’Loughlin (Captain) and Shane Wane (Head Coach) from Wigan Warriors added a Rugby League presence, bringing with them the Super League and World Club Challenge trophies won in the past 12 months.
Batting first, the Masters posted 163 for 7 from their 20 overs, thanks mainly to 54 from Paul Nixon and a cameo from Steve Harmison (28) who found himself in the unfamiliar role of opening batsman.
In response, the Mawdesley side scored a very creditable 120 for 7, despite a fiery initial bowling spell from Simon Jones and Ajmal Shahzad.
Peter McCauley from Eccleston Cricket Club top-scored for the hosts with 35, who didn’t discredit themselves in the slightest against illustrious opposition.
A crowd of more than 500 spectators witnessed the special occasion.
Paul Steadman, Chair of the Club said: “It was a great PCA game again with fantastic support from members, players and the local community and those who sponsored the match.
“Thanks to all who made it possible.
“The weather was kind for us with rain only arriving just after the end of the game and judging by the comments we have received, all those who attended had a great day.”
Nathan Trengove, who represented the Mawdesley Select XI said: “What an unbelievably fantastic experience, to play against your England heroes and test your skills against the best made it a day I will never forget.”
Nathan picked up the wickets of Nixon and Richard Blakey, both ex England wicket keepers - the latter superbly caught by Matt Stevenson.