Optimism abounds
WIDNES begin their 2022 campaign with renewed optimism and will be looking to improve on their sixth-placed finish last year.
Tom Evans once again captains the team and he believes that despite Majid Majeed deciding to play his cricket elsewhere, a blend of new recruits and the anticipated fulfilment of promise shown by last seasons youngsters, will combine to strengthen the team.
Widnes have spent the winter training hard under the guidance of new head coach Dan Bird.
Dan has several years’ experience with Northampton CC and with various schools across the northwest and midlands.
Having got to know the team in the later part of last season Dan will be helping both the first team and helping prepare the clubs rising stars to successfully make the transition from the junior ranks to first team cricket.
With the departure of Majeed, an Aussie all rounder, Fergus McKenna has joined the club. His joining was delayed initially by covid but is now looking forward to his time at Beaconsfield Road where previous compatriots have enjoyed significant success.
Joining Fergus is, ex Warrington player, Rohan Luthra, who Tom Evans rates highly. Rohan follows in the footsteps of quick bowler Aaron Soni, who has been a massive addition to the club.
Widnes supporters will be looking forward to seeing the development of last years top run scorer, Ali Chughtai.
Last season he scored over 700 runs at an average of 36.A fine achievement in only his first season of premier cricket.
Brothers McCoy, James and Luke and Hewitt’s Ben and Alex showed glimpses of true class last season and are predicted to plunder a greater volume of runs this term.
Matty Burns has got runs in the pre season along side veteran Chris Kirby and if both manage to stay fit, a bumper season is predicted.
In the bowling unit Hafiz and Soni dominated last season, with 41 and 42 wickets each at an average of around 20.
Captain Evans, under bowled for much of last season, will look to step up the amount of overs he bowls. A lot could hinge on the ability with the ball of new boys McKenna and Luthra in order to bowl sides out.
Over all, Evans is pleased with his squad and believes his new look side can be challenging for honours this season, which starts with an away fixture at Hyde CC this Saturday.