Widnes and Runcorn set to lock horns in tasty T20 derby encounter

THE Joseph Holt Brewery have again signified their financial support for the Vivio Cheshire County Cricket League’s T20 competition in 2018, the draw for which has been made involving 35 of the 36 clubs, Christleton having opted out of the tournament.

The draw minimises travel and maximises local derby games. Meanwhile, an East/ West element has been introduced at the playoff and quarter-final stages by competition secretary Geoff Wellsteed, his plan being to reduce travel.

There are nine mini groups, comprising eight of four teams and one of three teams.

And a tasty local derby is in store in Group Two where Runcorn and Widnes have been paired alongside Grappenhall and Warrington.

Widnes will have home advantage in the game with Runcorn on May 31.

Meantime, Alvanley are in Group Three along with Davenham, Northwich and Weaverham. All matches will be played using pink balls as specified by the League. ● GROUP FIXTURES: ● May 17: Runcorn v Grappenhall; Warrington v Widnes; Alvanley v Weaverham. ● May 31: Widnes v Runcorn; Alvanley v Davenham. ● June 14: Grappenhall v Widnes; Runcorn v Warrington; Northwich v Alvanley. ● THE League are to introduce an improved Reader Special Imperial Crown ball in all first XI matches next season.

This ball, which underwent a successful Premier League trial in 2017, costs £17.75 plus VAT compared to the £15.50 plus VAT Reader Sovereign used in recent seasons.

To help cover the additional cost, the League will provide three boxes containing six balls each free to all clubs playing first XI cricket.

The League plan to place a joint order with the UKFast Cheshire League for their supply from Readers, who have offered a total £5,000 discount.

Clubs will be required to order their balls supply through treasurer Matt Beckley in the usual way.

They will be distributed, together with handbooks, at the pre-season meeting at Warrington on April 11. ● THE League have acquired several new umpires during the close season and expect numbers to be up on 2017.

Among those joining the panel are two from the Pennine League, a former Minor Counties man from the Liverpool Competition, plus one from the Sussex League.

Long-time Cheadle Hulme batsman Ian Brown, who has played in the League since its inception in 1975, is also preparing to officiate.