Matt’s up for a new challenge as Cheadle plan for the top flight

MATTHEW Goodwin admits he almost walked away from cricket before agreeing to embark on a new challenge at Cheadle.

The Staffordshire all-rounder has left home club Blythe for a second time to sign a two-year deal with the NSSCL Premier Division newcomers.

Goodwin, who previously left Cresswell Lane for a spell at Moddershall, revealed he had fallen out of love with the game and needed a new challenge.

And that has come a few miles down the road at Cheadle, who are back in the top flight for the first time since 2012.

“I had three years back at Blythe, but towards the end of the season I didn’t enjoy cricket and can’t put my finger on why,” said the 26-year-old.

“I can’t put that down to Blythe, but I thought a move might motivate me.

“I even considered jacking in cricket and taking up golf again, although after speaking to a few clubs I’ve got that love back.

“Originally I thought I wanted to go to a club to win things, signing for someone like Porthill Park or Meakins, but socially a couple of the Blythe lads have gone to Cheadle and that swayed me.

“Cheadle have got good junior and senior sections and a great coach in Shaun Rashid - they are ambitious.”

Cheadle won the Division One title this summer and have launched plans to make their mark in the Premier Division.

Influential batsman Ali Khan is returning to the club, while James Sellers will continue to be a key component of the bowling attack.

Goodwin helped Blythe to a third-placed finish on their top-flight bow in 2018 - and he sees no reason why Cheadle can’t enjoy similar success in 2019.

“I want to use my experience to help to nurture the young lads,” explained Goodwin.

“It will be tough, but there’s an outstanding pro in Ali Khan and the new-ball combination of myself and Jimmy, which can hopefully win a few games.”