Redbrook hero hanging up his bat
AFTER a long and rewarding career in local cricket Rochdale captain Jon Henderson has finally decided to hang up his boots.
Henderson, an executive with JW Lees Brewery, was born with the scent of bat oil in his nostrils as his father Andy was also a prominent local amateur cricketer.
Henderson, tall for his age, first began to make his mark as a schoolboy fast bowler and useful batsman, playing for England’s under 15s, 17s, 18, and 19s and Lancashire’s under 13s, 15s and 19s.
He was also on Lancashire’s books from 1992 to 1995 and Shropshire’s from 1996 to 1999, playing Minor Counties cricket.
He made his debut for Rochdale at the old Dane Street ground in 1990, staying for six years until he signed for Moorside as a professional in the Saddleworth League from 1996 to1999.
He returned to Rochdale as first team skipper in 2000, remaining for four years until he was enticed into the Lancashire League with Todmorden from 2005 to 2009, the last three seasons as captain.
From there, he moved down the road to Littleborough, spending three years at Hare Hill before finally moving back to Rochdale in 2014, becoming first team captain in 2015, replacing Daz Cryer.
His trophy cabinet at home is fairly well stocked, too, Henderson having a Lancashire Cup winners medal, four league title medals, two interleague trophy medals, and a Manchester Evening News league side winner.
Summing up his successful career, Henderson told the Observer that league cricket had been a huge part of his life for 27 years.
“To start playing senior cricket in the 1990s in the CLL was an unforgettable experience.
“There were some world class pros in the league at that time, along with many good amateurs.
“If I had to single out a few players I would have to mention Dave Callaghan, Gus Logie, Asif Mujtaba, Andy Bichel and Bruce Roberts.
“Amateur wise, there were plenty but I have to say that Neil Avery and Mo Bux were two of the best I have ever been fortunate to have played with.
“There are many, many more that I have enjoyed playing with and against and enjoyed a pint or two with off the field. And that is one of the great things about local cricket and the memories you share.
“If I was to give the Redbrook lads any advice as to the future, it would be to train and practice and think about your game. The talent is there in the team and the game is there for them, I’m sure.”
Rochdale have not yet announced who will be their captain next season, although it is expected that left arm spinner Dale Highton, deputy to Henderson last season, will take up the reins.