GRAPPENHALL Cricket Club is gearing up for the start of the new season – with the firm intention of winning promotion back to the premier division of the Cheshire County League.
Australian quick bowler Nick Woods will be arriving mid-April to play for the whole season. Currently playing for Carlton Cricket Club, in Victoria, Nick is a 6ft 6 inch quick bowler with an impressive record in Australia.
He will complement Grappenhall youngster Lewis Porter, who has continued his development at Scarborough College. The pair will make a formidable new-ball partnership.
Grappers opening batsman Pete Barnes is taking over as 1st XI captain, taking over from Sam Guest
Batsman Tom Higham has moved to the club from neighbours Warrington and spin bowler Kieran Lawton has also joined from Greater Manchester league side Flowery Fields at Hyde.
Club secretary Paul Tyerman said: “The 1st XI squad is looking promising for 2022 and confidence is high that we can push for promotion back to the Premier League.
“The additions to the 1st XI will have a positive impact on the 2s and 3s with more players competing for places. Added to this, the club has worked hard throughout the winter to enable the 2s and 3s to have an added focus on youth development.”
Off the field, the club has been busy with a refurbishment to the clubhouse – thanks to a generous grant from the ECB.
Fundraising activities over the winter have enabled the club to secure the equipment to live stream their matches this summer. This will mean that people not able to get down to Broad Lane will be able to keep up with the live-action. Highlights packages will also be produced.
