Smit: Title win for volunteers

RAMSBOTTOM captain Daryn Smit paid tribute to those who helped repair the club’s ground this winter after his side won the Lancashire League.

The Irwell burst its banks on Boxing Day leaving Acre Bottom underwater and an estimated 40 tonnes of mud and silt on the playing area.

But members rallied around and their hard work was rewarded when Ramsbottom recorded a one-wicket win over Nelson to seal the title.

“It was a humbling experience to see how much it meant to the players and supporters,” explained Smit.

“It’s probably been one of the hardest seasons the club has had. The flooding around Christmas saw everyone pull together.”

On Sunday, Ramsbottom were dominant in the first innings with Smit taking 6-10 as Nelson were rolled for 78.

But the visitors went from 10-0 to 54-8 and it took until the final ball for last man Josh Dentith to score the winning runs.

“It took us 49.5 overs to get to 82 runs, which shows how tough it was,” Smit added. “We have had a motto this season, which is ‘Find a Way’.

“It was ugly cricket but to get over the line and lift the trophy was fantastic.”