C Sharp

6th May 20256th May 2025 C Sharp Cricket Fixtures, Uncategorised

Quadruple Win for Stretford in League & Cup

Match Reports

1st XI (130-6) vs Bolton Deane & Derby (125)

Stretford 1st XI Clinch Victory Over Bolton Deane & Derby by 4 Wickets

Stretford 1st XI continued their strong form with a confident four-wicket win over Bolton Deane & Derby in their latest league encounter.

After losing the toss, Stretford were asked to bowl first and quickly seized control of the match. Left-arm spinner Syed Haider was the standout performer, claiming an excellent 5-37 to dismantle the Deane & Derby middle order. He was well supported by new-ball bowler Rob Renforth, who opened up his account for the season, taking 3-35 in his opening spell. Ramesh Perera added a tidy return of 2-20 as the visitors were bowled out for just 125.

In response, Stretford’s chase began positively with a solid 40-run opening stand between Ali Raza Butt (18) and Ollie Barrett (25), laying a strong foundation. Despite a couple of quick wickets in the middle overs, contributions from the top and middle order kept the innings on track. Tim Boyd added a composed 24, while skipper Adam Saynor guided the team home with an unbeaten 14 — finishing the game in style with a maximum.

The result sees Stretford maintain momentum in their campaign, with Haider’s five-wicket haul and a collective batting effort proving decisive.

Little Hulton (161) vs Stretford (201)

Stretford 2nd XI secured their first victory of the season in impressive fashion, overcoming Little Hulton by 40 runs in a well-rounded team performance.

Batting first, Stretford posted a competitive total of 201 from their allotted 45 overs. Arohan Rohra continued his fine form with a second consecutive half-century, scoring a composed 53. He was well supported by Hamza Arif (32), Blake Crawshaw (23), and Usman Hasan (24), all chipping in with valuable contributions to build a strong total.

In response, Little Hulton made steady progress, reaching 155-5 and appearing to be in control of the chase. However, a spirited comeback from the Stretford bowlers turned the game on its head. Usman Hasan starred with the ball, capping a superb all-round display by ripping through the order to claim outstanding figures of 6-41. He was backed up by Freddie March (2-24) and Kevin Ninan (2-36) as the hosts collapsed to 161 all out.

It was a well-earned and much-needed win for Stretford 2nd XI, who will look to build on this victory going into the rest of the season.

CUP ACTION

Double Delight in Sunday Cup Action as Both Stretford XIs Advance to Round Two

It was a superb day for Stretford Cricket Club on Sunday, as both the 1st and 2nd XIs secured convincing victories in their respective cup fixtures against South West Manchester opposition, booking their places in the second round.

South West Manchester (203-8) vs 1st XI (204-7)

Away at South West Manchester, the 1st XI were asked to bowl first. The hosts posted a competitive 203-8 from their 45 overs, but the wickets were shared evenly among the Stretford bowlers, with standout spells from Jack Blackwell (2-24) and Pares Malindi (2-56).

In reply, Stretford’s opening pair of Ali Raza Butt (18) and Ollie Barrett laid the groundwork once again with their second 40-run stand in as many days. Barrett went on to anchor the innings with a fluent 58. Syed Haider then added momentum with a brisk 36, before the middle order calmly saw the game home. Connor Bliss chipped in with 19, and the unbeaten duo of Adam Saynor (20*) and Benjy Evans (19*) guided Stretford across the line with confidence.

2nd XI (72-2) vs South West Manchester (67)

Back on home turf, the 2nd XI made light work of their cup tie with a commanding all-round display. South West Manchester’s batting lineup was blown away for just 67, thanks to a relentless bowling effort led by Rob Lawson (4-23) and Arohan Rohra (3-13), who continued his excellent weekend form.

The run chase was a formality, completed inside 15 overs. Rohra capped off a standout day with an unbeaten 29 at the top of the order, while Uwais Siddique (18) and Hamza Arif (15*) ensured a swift and efficient finish.

Four victories out of four capped off a perfect weekend for Stretford Cricket Club, with both sides firing in all departments. Eyes now turn to the next week and the next round as momentum continues to build throughout the club. Allez Les Bleus

28th Apr 2025 C Sharp Cricket Fixtures

Stretford topple SWM in dominant display

Match Reports: Sat 26th & Sun 27th April

Match Reports

South West Manchester (98) vs United Stars (318-7)

Stretford 1st XI produced a stunning all-round performance to overpower local rivals South West Manchester by a mammoth 220 runs on Saturday.

Batting first, Stretford piled on an imposing total of 318 for 7 from their 50 overs. Tim Boyd was the star of the innings with a superbly crafted 113, providing the perfect anchor for the innings. Syed Haider continued his fluent striking from the season opener and added 80. Benjy Evans, with his unbeaten 44*, provided crucial late-innings acceleration.

In response, South West Manchester were never allowed to settle as Stretford’s bowlers applied relentless pressure from the outset. The innings was dominated by a sensational spell from spinner Niall Heyes, who tore through the South West batting order with remarkable figures of 7 for 19.

Benjy Evans (2 for 31) and Pares Malindi (1 for 6) chipped in with wickets of their own, ensuring there was no respite for the visitors. South West Manchester were eventually dismissed for just 98, sealing a comprehensive and richly deserved victory for Stretford.

This commanding performance further underlines Stretford’s growing momentum this season, with both bat and ball firing in impressive fashion.

2nd XI (116) vs South West Manchester (117-7)

Stretford 2nd XI fought hard but ultimately slipped to a three-wicket defeat at home to South West Manchester in a closely contested match.

Batting first, Stretford were bowled out for 116, with debutant Arohan Rohra impressing with a composed 57. He was supported by Hamza Arif, who chipped in with a valuable 23, but regular wickets prevented the hosts from building a bigger total.

In reply, Stretford’s bowlers made South West Manchester work for their runs. Another Stretford debutant Kevin Ninan led the attack with an excellent spell of 3 for 13, while Freddy March (2 for 23), Hamza Arif (1 for 16), and Usman Hasan (1 for 35) all contributed with key breakthroughs.

However, the visitors managed to reach the target inside 31 overs, securing victory despite a spirited effort from the Stretford side.

A tough result, but plenty of positives — particularly the promising debuts from Rohra & Ninan and a strong showing from the bowling unit.

4th XI (191-7) vs Stayley (128)

Stretford 4th XI produced a strong all-round performance to claim a convincing 63-run victory over Stayley on Sunday.

Batting first, Stretford posted a competitive 191-7 from their allotted overs. Senior stalwart Chris Walker anchored the innings with a composed 45, while the club’s promising juniors stepped up impressively. Hilal Sadat contributed a stylish 34, and Eesa Khawaja added a valuable 22 to ensure Stretford set a challenging total.

In reply, Stayley struggled to build any lasting partnerships and were eventually dismissed for 128. The Stretford juniors shone with the ball, sharing the wickets among themselves. Eesa Khawaja capped a fine all-round display with figures of 2-10, Thomas Garnett impressed with 2-11, Max Keogh chipped in with 2-15, and Ali Sher Amir opened up the innings with 2-19.

It was a comprehensive team effort from the 4th XI, securing a deserved first victory for the year.

23rd Apr 2025 C Sharp Features

Sit Down with the Skipper – Part 4: Danny Rowan

An interview with 4th XI Captain – Danny Rowan

Q: Danny, can you tell us a bit about the role the 4th XI plays within the wider club structure?

DR: The 4th XI has been brought in to help our junior players take their first steps into senior cricket and the 40 over game. We have in the past brought through some great youngsters and hopefully with the 4th XI now in the development league this will continue. We hope this will encourage our juniors to push on and then go forward into the 3rds, 2nds and ultimately the 1sts.

Q: What’s the overall approach or philosophy for your team this year?

DR: My aim this year is to bring those players on the verge of playing senior cricket up to a level that they could not only continue within the 4th XI, but with the guidance of myself and the other seniors; they would be able to push for more competitive games in the 3rds the following season.

Q: What are some of the biggest adjustments young players face when stepping up to adult cricket?

DR: There are a number of challenges when stepping up to the senior game, the first is the length of the game itself. The juniors have only ever played 20 overs in the past so they will need to adjust not only to the length of time, but also their concentration levels to match this. The second would be the pace of the game, senior players are naturally bigger so things will be quicker than what the youngsters have faced before; this can be quite intimidating for some of the players.

Q: What role do the senior players in the side play in guiding and supporting the juniors?

DR: I’m glad this question followed the last. It’s the senior players role to make sure that the juniors are getting good advice while either in the field or at the crease. We will look to support each junior player and make sure that they are not only developing but that they are enjoying the game as well. We are there to pass on our experience and knowledge of the game. I myself will also liaise with junior coaches asking what we can do to assist them with helping the player’s developments.

Q: What would a successful season look like for you as 4th XI captain?

DR: A successful season for the 4th XI would be to have a number of young players ready to step up into more competitive senior cricket. Hopefully, a few could be knocking on the door of the 3rds in a season’s time. We would also like to see the juniors enjoying senior cricket as well as developing their skills on the field.

Q: Are there any particular skills or values you’re hoping to instil in the team this year?

DR: This season I would like the juniors to know that it is just not playing cricket but the other things that are required so we can play. I’d like the juniors to learn that there are jobs to be done before and after the game and that if we all muck in together then we can enjoy the game that follows. Hopefully, this can follow them throughout their development.

Q: What are some of the challenges that come with captaining a team focused on development?

DR: I don’t see many challenges but it’s more of a privilege to be able to captain a young side who want to continue their journeys in the game. We have a good number of coaches this season so hopefully, with their help and the senior players on the field we can support the juniors throughout the season.

Q: How important is it that the 4th XI feels connected to the rest of the club?

DR: Good question, any team within Stretford CC should be connected to all other teams and the club. If apart from the other seniors teams, then we have no communication and are unable to advise of the talented youngsters that could possibly take further steps and play more competitive cricket. I see it that we should all be working together, captains, players and coaches, developing together to make a stronger Stretford CC rather than just each team individually.

Q: What would you say to parents and guardians about the value of this team for their children’s development?

DR: Firstly, I would like to reassure all parents that we would approach them before any decision is made on calling up their children to the 4th XI; and will only pick their child with their permission. I will explain that the coaches have seen skills and talents that are needed for the junior to step up and that we believe that they are more than capable to play at that level and how this can only support the juniors development.

Q: Finally, any message to the juniors players looking forward to their first tastes of senior cricket, what to expect from the season ahead?

DR: Very simple, enjoy the game. Listen to the seniors on the field and take our advice. If there is anything you are not enjoying then just speak to us and we’ll be happy to make changes, this is for your development and we as seniors want to help and support you with it.

23rd Apr 2025 C Sharp Features

Sit Down with the Skipper: Part 3 – Paddy Lampton

An interview with 3rd XI Captain – Paddy Lambton

Q: Paddy, with the new season just around the corner, how is the excitement building for the 3rd XI?

PL: As always, once the sun starts shining and you start smelling that freshly mown grass, speaking for myself, all I want is to be out on a cricket field. The 3s are in a slightly more competitive league this year compared to last, with many more fixtures. So there is a genuine excitement to see how we will stack up in that.

Q: Have there been any new faces or exciting juniors coming through during the winter we should keep an eye out for?

PL: You never really know what might happen over winter with juniors. Sometimes a wiry 15-year-old comes back a foot taller and able to bowl 10mph quicker after the winter break. I am excited to work with the junior coaches to identify the next crop of players ready to make that step up into senior cricket.

Q: How important is your team in developing players for higher levels of club cricket?

PL: I think that the 3s is vital in acclimatising younger players to senior league cricket, but with a little less pressure than might be found in the Saturday teams, so they can enjoy it and find their feet.

Q: As captain, how do you approach managing a side with both senior players and developing juniors?

PL: With juniors in the side, I always try to take the pressure off their shoulders where I can. I think it is very easy for youngsters to get carried away when things are going well and down when they aren’t. I try to instill in them that we play a certain way, win or lose, and as long as we are putting in the effort on the field and in training and showing a good attitude then I cannot ask for any more than that.

Q: How do you make sure the experienced players support and guide the younger ones?

PL: I think I have been lucky in terms of the senior players who are in the team, as they all think the same way about the game as I do, so I just let them do their thing. The only special measure I occasionally need to take is to position a senior player at mid off or mid on to be in the bowler’s ear if a batsman is looking to get after them or something like that.

Q: What does it mean to you personally to lead the 3rd XI?

PL: It’s something that I am very proud to do. If I can create a team where we all work for each other and enjoy and celebrate each other’s successes, then I feel I will have accomplished something worthwhile.

Q: What lessons from past seasons will you be carrying into this one?

PL: I think we had a pretty successful season last year, so I think it’s just a case of more of the same and try to build on that foundation again this year.

Q: Are there any particular fixtures you’re looking forward to or rivalries that stand out?

PL: Not particularly, we have moved league this year into the GMCL Sunday division 2, so we won’t have played most of the teams for a few years. I’m very excited to see how we fare.

Q: How do you see the 3rd XI contributing to the overall success and spirit of the club?

PL: I think that every team at the club is important and has a part to play. We came second in our league last year and I would love it if we could go one better than that this year but let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves.

Q: What message would you give to parents of junior players involved in the team as well as supporters of the club?

PL: Get down on a Sunday and watch us play. It’s a great way to spend a day and we really appreciate any support. We also have a habit of having close games in recent times (including a tie last year) so you will fulfill your sporting excitement quota for the weekend.

Q: And finally, what do you hope players take away from being part of the 3rd XI this season? PL: My main hope is that everyone goes home after every game having had a great day out and can’t wait for the next one (Winning games helps massively in this regard). That’s ultimately why we all play, isn’t it? For enjoyment

23rd Apr 202523rd Apr 2025 C Sharp Cricket Fixtures, Uncategorised

Stretford Cricket Club Match Reports: April 19-20

1st XI (198-9) vs United Stars (297-9)

Stretford Cricket Club 1st XI fell to a 99-run defeat against a strong United Stars side in Saturday’s league fixture.

United Stars set the tone early, piling on an imposing 297-9 from their 50 overs. Despite the onslaught, Stretford found some success with the ball, with ever reliable Benjy Evans and debutant Ramesh Perera both picking up three wickets apiece to help limit further damage at each ends of the innings.

In reply, Stretford battled away against some tight bowling. Another newcomer, Syed Haider provided the highlight of the innings with an entertaining 52, including a remarkable 30 runs in a single over. Captain Adam Saynor chipped in with 28, while Tim Boyd introduced himself to the Stretford faithful with a gritty 27. However, the side ultimately finished on 198-9, well short of the target.

Plenty of positives to take for the 1st XI, but with a long season ahead they’ll be looking ahead to next week and build the foundations for a strong challenge in the league.

Failsworth Macedonia (143-6) vs 2nd XI (139)

Stretford 2nd XI came up short in their away fixture against Failsworth Macedonia, losing by 4 wickets in a competitive encounter.

Batting first, Stretford were bowled out for 139. New Zealand overseas player Connor Bliss top-scored with a composed 32, while opener Mo Rehan provided a steady start with 27. However, regular wickets throughout the innings prevented the visitors from posting a more formidable total.

In response, the hosts chased down the target with six wickets down. Mo Rehan impressed with the ball as well, claiming 2-12 in a tidy spell, but it wasn’t enough to halt Failsworth Macedonia’s progress.

A spirited effort from Stretford, who will look to regroup ahead of next weekend’s fixture.

3rd XI (96) vs Droylsden (99-1)

Stretford 3rd XI suffered a heavy defeat at home to Droylsden, going down by 9 wickets.

Batting first, the home side slumped to 18-5 before Sanmay Santhosh produced a blistering counter-attack. His explosive 52 from just 19 balls, featuring five 4’s and four towering 6’s, briefly swung momentum back Stretford’s way. However, once he departed with the score at 91-6, the innings quickly folded to 96 all out.

Droylsden made light work of the chase, knocking off the runs for the loss of just one wicket. Max Skuse claimed the solitary breakthrough for Stretford in an otherwise dominant performance from the visitors.

Plenty to reflect on for the 3rd XI, with captain Paddy Lambton positive for a quick turnaround and plenty of cricket to play.

Flowery Field (260-6) vs 4th XI (99)

Stretford Cricket Club’s 4th XI kicked off their inaugural fixture in the GMCL Development League with an away clash against Flowery Field. The Development League, designed to give juniors a platform to experience senior cricket, provided an excellent opportunity for Stretford’s young talents to step up — albeit in challenging circumstances, as the team was forced to field just 10 players due to availability issues.

Flowery Field took to the crease first, compiling a total of 260 for 6. Despite the pressure, Stretford’s youngsters showed resilience, with promising spells from Bilal Siddique and Rayyan Imtiaz, both of whom claimed 2 wickets apiece.

In response, Stretford found it tough going against a strong Flowery attack and were bowled out for 99. The batting highlight came from Aarij Naveed, who played with maturity beyond his years to top-score with 21. Though the result didn’t go their way, the match served its purpose in providing valuable experience to Stretford’s emerging talent. With continued exposure at this level, the signs are positive for the club’s junior development

Front row (L-R) Ramesh Perera, Ryan Mofett, Jack Blackwell (v/c), Adam Saynor (C), Ali Raza, Blake Crawshaw. Back Row (L-R) Syed Haider, Tim Boyd, Robert Renforth Benjy Evans, Niall Heyes, Greg Spencer (scorer)

14th Apr 202515th Apr 2025 C Sharp Blissful Thinking, Features

Blissful Thinking #1

What a week it’s been! I’m loving this adventure and hope I can make a big difference here.
Before I go any further I should probably introduce myself!
I’m Connor Bliss and I’m 27 years old from Wellington, New Zealand. I’ve been coaching cricket for a total of 11 years. From junior coaching, and the past 3 years I’ve moved into development and senior coaching. I’ve gained my Level 2 coaching certificate through NZC and have been lucky enough to have been mentored by some legends of the game in New Zealand. It’s a very privileged feeling being assigned head coach of Stretford CC this season.

I came to the UK two and a half years ago on holiday, and spent some time in Manchester where I became very fond of the tempo of the city, and reminded me of home in that sense. So when the opportunity came up to play and coach cricket here in Stretford, it was a no brainer.
My first week here has been full of meeting people and learning names, walking the streets and learning my new environment for the summer ahead. It’s been a real joy exploring the local area and the people here have made me feel right at home. A big thanks to the SCC management and others for this and setting me up.

My plan for the season will be to contribute to skills of cricket and the enjoyment of all the players I am involved with. Keeping the tempo high at training and on game days, whilst ensuring that everyone is involved and having fun. And of course, nothing is more fun than winning a game of cricket. I plan to bring KPIs and goal setting into the club, which provides a non-result based review of each game and the season. You can always find success on any day and also can outline areas of work on’s for the following week.

I’m really looking forward to the start of the season as this is a dream job for myself and looking to take full advantage of my time here. Any player who wants to take advantage of some 1-1 coaching please give me a shout, I’m happy to offer a free taster session for anyone who wants to develop their game- give me a buzz!

If anyone at the club has any questions for me or would like a chat over a coffee I’d love to hear from you! Open door policy all season long.

Thanks again and see you down at the The Boundary!

Connor 🥝🏏

11th Apr 202511th Apr 2025 C Sharp Cricket Fixtures

Sit Down with the Skipper – Part 2 – Pavail Aqeel

Welcome to part two of our feature “Sit Down with the Skipper” as we build up to the start of the 2025 season. This time we chat with Pavail Aqueel. He joined the club four years ago and has thrown himself into a leadership role taking charge of the 2ndXI.

Q: How are you feeling ahead of the new season?

PA: Excited and optimistic. I can’t wait to get out on the pitch with the lads, welcome new faces into the side, and build on the momentum from last season. It’s my fourth year at Stretford and second as 2nd XI skipper, and every year it feels more like home.

Q: Have you made any signings, or are there any players to watch out for this season?

PA: We’ve strengthened nicely. Connor Bliss joins the 2nds this year from New Zealand as our overseas — his experience and leadership will be a huge asset. We’ve also picked up two handy all-rounders: Rai Faizan (ex-Knutsford CC) and Kevin Ninan, who’s bringing London energy up north. Uwais Siddique returns as well, which gives us more firepower.

With the ball, keep your eye on Blake Crawshaw — he’s developing fast and bowled with serious maturity last year. And in the batting department, Hamza Arif remains our resident big hitter — if you’re parked near the boundary, maybe move your car.

Q: What are the team’s main goals this year?

PA: Promotion is 100% on the radar. But more than that, I want the team to give their best, play with freedom, and enjoy every moment. Winning becomes easier when you’re having fun and playing for each other. Effort, team spirit, and a few good cricketing memories — that’s the goal.

Q: How does the 2nd XI fit into the wider club structure this season?

PA: The 2nds are a vital bridge between the 1sts and 3rds. We’re here to develop talent, give players opportunities to step up, and ensure there’s a strong pipeline feeding into the top side. A healthy second team means a stronger club.

Q: How important is your role in preparing players for potential 1st XI opportunities?

PA: Very. It’s not just about cricketing ability — it’s about confidence, attitude, and preparation. My role is to help players mentally and technically get ready for that next step. If someone’s pushing for 1st XI, they’ll know about it — and I’ll be backing them all the way. If you’re smashing it in the 2s, I’ll be the first to shout about it.

Q: What does it mean to you to captain the 2nd XI?

PA: It’s a big honour and a good laugh. I get to lead a great bunch of lads, give something back to the club, and stress about the weather forecast every Friday. Thanks to the club for backing me again.

Q: What lessons have you learned from your first season in this role?

PA: A lot! From managing player shortages to keeping morale high during tough games, I’ve learned the importance of patience, organisation, and staying calm under pressure. Communication is key, and I now know that a captain’s job doesn’t stop once the game begins — it’s a constant role. And I’ve also learned that no matter how many times you explain the fielding positions, someone will always ask, “Where do I stand again?”

Q: What personal goals have you set for yourself this year as captain and player?

PA: As captain, I want us to win 70% of our matches and be real contenders for promotion. As a player, I’ve set myself the challenge of scoring over 500 runs and taking 35 wickets. But more than stats, I want to be a consistent performer and lead by example.

Q: What will be your toughest challenges this year?

PA: We’ve got some tough fixtures — Little Hulton, Failsworth Macedonia, Swinton Moorside, Woodhouses. These are quality sides, but we’re backing ourselves this year. The challenge will be consistency, especially during the mid-season stretch.

Q: How important is it to have a strong connection between the 1st XI & 2nd XI?

PA: Massively. A strong bond between teams creates a united club culture. When players move between sides, it should feel seamless. That only happens when there’s mutual respect and open communication.

Q: What do you want to see from the squad, regardless of results?

PA: Commitment and togetherness. Turn up to training, be punctual, do your jobs on matchday, and support one another. Results come and go, but the culture we build is what lasts. If we stay united, the wins will follow.

Q: Any message for club members and supporters ahead of the new season?

PA: We’d love your support — whether you pop down for an hour or stay the whole day. Bring friends, family, and a chair. There’s no better place to spend a summer afternoon than watching local cricket with a cold drink in hand.

Looking forward to a big season ahead. Up the 2s, and up Stretford!

6th Apr 202511th Apr 2025 C Sharp Features

Sitdown with the Skipper – Part 1: Adam Saynor

I am very happy to bring you part one of a four part feature. Our team captain sits down for a chat. They also answer a few questions thrown at them. Firstly, an interview with 1st XI Captain – Adam Saynor.

Q: Adam, the new season is approaching – are you excited? How have you prepared over winter?
AS: Definitely! I think I speak for the whole squad when I say we’re really excited to get going. It’s been a busy winter preparing for the year ahead. Making sure the squad and club are moving in the right direction.

Q: Have you made any key additions to the squad during the off-season?
AS: Yes, we’ve made some really exciting signings. Players who not only add strength on the field but also bring good energy to the dressing room.

Our overseas for the year is Ryan Moffett from Namibia, a Wicket Keeper Batter, who represented his country in the 2024 Cricket World Cup.

Tim Boyd an exciting young South African All Rounder who played in Kendal last season. Ramesh Perera joins from Stockport Trinity, an Off Spinning All Rounder with a lot of experience.

Syed Haider switches from Denton West, a left arm spinner who has represented Norway in the European Cricket League.

There are other players who have joined. Niall Heyes and Pares Malindi are among them. They are ones to keep an eye out for.

Q: What are the team’s main goals and expectations for this season?
AS: We want to be competing at the top end of the table. After two back to back disappointing seasons. We have to show what we as a team are capable of. More importantly, we want to play a consistent brand of cricket that reflects our potential. That means high standards in all departments, strong team unity, and making sure we’re in a position to win games in every game.

Q: How do you handle the pressures of captaincy on and off the field?
AS: For me, it’s about trusting the people around me and not trying to do everything myself. We’ve got a great group of lads who can all be a voice and they all back one another, so I always feel supported. On the field, it’s about staying calm and making clear decisions. Off the field, I just try to lead by example and be approachable to every player.

Q: What have you learned from past seasons that you’ll apply this year?
AS: One of the biggest lessons for me is enjoying it. I’ve been a part of Stretford CC for six seasons and the past two there hasn’t been enough enjoyment of the game of cricket. This year I’m hoping to create that environment where players have a strong bond and belief between themselves. Where they feel proud to be a part of Stretford CC and can be passionate about their cricket.

Q: What style of cricket do you want the team to play this season?
AS: We want to play positive, fearless, and enjoyable cricket, but with control. That means backing our ability with the bat, being aggressive with the ball, and staying sharp in the field. At the same time, we want to be smart and adaptable depending on the situation.

Q: Are there any specific areas you’re looking to improve as a team?
AS: Yes, being honest last season we were poor in all three departments. Didn’t bat the overs given. Didn’t bowl tight enough lines and made too many mistakes in the field.

By going back to basics, focusing on what makes us a strong and difficult side to face. Working on individual goals to improve ourselves and each other. This hopefully gives players a new freedom to play and enjoy the season ahead.

Q: What will your toughest challenges be this season?

AS: Every season throws up its own challenges. Availability, injuries and strong opposition. But I think the biggest one is consistency. Being able to get a regular 11 playing together and performing at our best. Players standing up and showing that today is their day. We’ve shown in the past we can beat anyone on our day, but this year the challenge is to do it week in, week out.

Q: Any message for the club’s supporters ahead of the season?

AS: Thanks for always backing us. Your support really does make a difference. Whether it’s watching from the sidelines, helping out behind the scenes, or watching the livestream on Frogbox. We’re working hard to give you a season to be proud of, and we can’t wait to see you all down at the club!

25th Mar 202511th Apr 2025 C Sharp Admin, Junior Cricket

Trafford Council Scraps SCC Rent Subsidy

The 2025 season is almost upon us and there is much to be excited about as the new season approaches.

We have several new additions to the senior cricket section which we hope will propel the 1st team to challenge for promotion, add depth to our squads for the forthcoming season and improve the chance of success across all our senior teams. We have also entered the 4th team into league cricket which gives our juniors a pathway into senior cricket which is part of a wider plan to produce our own players both now and in the future. Aligned to this we have also secured the services of an experienced head coach who will add vital support to the cricket section.

The junior section continues to grow and we will have 6 junior age group teams for the forthcoming season with the addition of the under 18’s team and our first girls team under the Dynamos age group, this will give girls between the ages of 8-11 an excellent introduction to cricket. We are always on the lookout for people to help with the junior teams and we have supported 2 junior parents through coaching courses this winter which they passed with flying colours, so if you wish to get involved let us know and we’ll help you to help us.

Off the field we have removed the old seating and this will be replaced with benches and picnic tables which will complete the look of the spectator areas. Thanks to those who have sponsored the memorial benches.

We will also be offering further food options from the food shack on which more detail will be provided soon.

But unfortunately it’s not all good news as Trafford Council have informed us that our rent subsidy will be removed and starting from the 1st April we will be subject to rent payments as part of our lease. Initially the rent due was £6700 per annum, however after much discussion with the Council and our local MP, the rent will start at £1300 and rise incrementally over a five year period until it reaches £6700 in April 2029, giving the club some time to adapt to these new costs.

Sadly in response to these new costs and increases in costs across the club we have reluctantly decided to increase our bar prices with most alcoholic drinks rising by 50p. We appreciate these are difficult financial times for many but we felt that increasing the bar prices was a better option than significantly raising subs which may then impact peoples ability to be able to afford to pay and subsequently play cricket. We are currently looking for ways to manage our costs with the hope that we can secure funding for more solar panels to reduce our electricity costs further. We are however keeping our membership points scheme for bar purchases so you will still be able to accumulate points and spend them at the bar.

As part of our discussions with the council on the rent we have taken to opportunity to seek a new lease as our current lease only has 9 years remaining. The new agreement will be for 35 years and include provisions for the council to help maintain the lane condition and safety as well as stipulations on how future rent rises are managed. We are awaiting the first draft of this new lease but once agreed it will provide the club with certainty for the future and also aid our quest to rebuild the clubhouse when we come to seek funding.

So as you can see the management team has had a busy winter preparing for the forthcoming season, giving their spare time freely to help manage the club, so I’d like to extend my personal thanks for all their efforts. If anyone wishes to get more involved with the club we would love to hear from you as we are always looking for volunteers. Any amount of help will be gratefully received.

So with a full cricket and social calendar there is much to look forward to, let’s hope we are blessed with an abundance of sunshine!

Your continued support is much appreciated, I’m looking forward to seeing you all throughout the season.

Russ Carson
Club Chair.