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 🥝🏏

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!

Adam Saynor watches the ball on to the bat in defence
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!

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.

Club Secretary Uncategorised

My Friend Electric: Mike Laker Obituary

On a rainy Sunday the away friendly match had been abandoned after 3 overs at Caldy on the Wirral. Since there was no home match at Stretford, a few of us decided to stay for a pint. Others elected to go back to the club. On my return to Stretford, the club house appeared closed but a faint 135 beat per minute drum and bassline suggested signs of life. I cautiously opened the lounge to reveal Mike and his young sons Christopher and Matthew singing and dancing around the pool table to Abba’s Does Your Mother Know using the cues as guitars. I remember questioning myself.  “Have I walked into some sort of parallel universe?

In retrospect, it wasn’t a parallel universe it was a perfect moment to sum up Mike. I joined in as if nobody was looking!  He was a person filled with joy without a bad word for anyone. A true gentleman. He knew what he liked and was hugely committed to those things. He loved his family. He loved his sport. He loved his music. He loved Man United (I won’t hold that against him). He was a massive real ale fan before it was cool. Most of all, he loved other people doing well. He didn’t mind what you did as long as you did something with 100% effort.   He had respect for everyone – he used to greet me with a bow “Lord Sharp, I presume?” …………. I will never know why?!

And so, with great sadness I must announce that Michael Laker died yesterday at the age of 60. He had been diagnosed with dementia; such a cruel disease. He will be massively missed by all at Stretford CC. On behalf of everyone at the club, I offer my sincere condolences. My thoughts go out to Jill, Christopher, Matthew & the Laker family. I feel very privileged that such a great bloke was my friend.

Some of the best times of his life took place at the club a place he always regarded as home. From the first time I met Mike whacking tennis balls in the nets with his sons down at Electric Avenue behind the scoreboard or getting run out by him on my 3rdXI debut it was obvious he was a SCC true blood and a complete one-off.

 Everyone at Stretford CC has a favourite Mike Laker story.

Mike was always the type of player to take on advice from others. He had reached 50 runs in a third team match which is both a time for celebration and caution. As a batter, it is always a danger period in your innings after passing a milestone. 50 runs is never enough. You acknowledge the clapping from teammates and spectators and then it’s important to knuckle down to score more runs. Taking this message very literally, Mike removed his batting gloves and pads in the centre of the wicket. He placed them on the ground alongside his trusty Grey Nicholls sleeper. Then, he gave himself a good talking to. “START AGAIN, START AGAIN” he shouted. He was dismissed shortly afterwards.

Stretford always tried to stay ahead of the times with technology. One match, Nige Mitson decided to rig up a stump microphone. Very advanced in the late 80s! Mike was struggling at the crease batting. Mistiming shots, playing and missing, false strokes. I heard it was quite amusing to listen to Mike as he lambasted himself over the stump microphone. He scratched his way through the innings. All of a sudden, the shackles came off and Mike gloriously stroked a drive through to the cover boundary. As soon as the ball hit his bat, Mike shouted joyfully into the microphone. “There we go, ELECTRIC.”

A new nickname was born. Mike embraced it with great pride. He developed a new handshake with his teammates [BUZZZZ BUZZZZ] – if you know you know.

The memory of Electric Mike Laker will always shine bright at Stretford CC.

We will update members with funeral details when known.
We would love to hear any more stories you have or memories of Mike.

Club Secretary Cricket Fixtures

Exciting Changes at Stretford Cricket Club for 2025

As the 2025 cricket season approaches, Stretford Cricket Club is buzzing with anticipation. With a raft of new signings, an expanded league structure, and ambitious development plans, the club is ready to take its on-and off-field performance to the next level. Here’s what fans, members, and players can look forward to this year.

Five New Signings

Stretford has secured five key signings, adding depth and experience across its senior teams. Overseas signing Ryan Moffett, the nineteen-year-old Namibian, a dynamic wicketkeeper batsmen will look to fortify the top order, while Tim Boyd, a hard-hitting all-rounder, promises to bring fireworks with both bat and ball, Joining them is Syed Haider, a proven middle-order batsman and crafty left arm spinner; brings a wealth of experience playing in top leagues around Europe, and Ramesh Perera, with his devious right arm off spin and aggressive top order batting will add further prowess to the 1st XI. Finally, new Head Coach & 2nd XI overseas signing Connor Bliss, will provide a huge boost to training with his knowledge and skill set, along with his ability as a crucial all rounder to forge a successful season for the 2nd XI. These additions are expected to strengthen the club’s push for league success across all teams.

A New Chapter for the 4th XI

In a significant milestone for the club, the 4th XI will compete in a newly formed development league in the GMCL this season. This not only offers more playing opportunities for emerging talent at Stretford it also gives a taste of senior cricket to those juniors of the future. Captain Danny Rowan eagerly awaits the season with high hopes. “Having brought through some of the junior players over the last few seasons into the 2nds and 3rds, I am looking forward to seeing the next crop of young talent coming through and the newly formed 4th XI will hopefully be a great step in bringing in those players who are ready to make the next step in to senior cricket”

A Packed Social Calendar

Stretford CC has always been about more than cricket, and 2025 is no exception. The club has organised a full calendar of social events, from quiz nights and family barbecues to themed parties, hire outs and karaoke evenings. These events aim to bring together players, families, and members while simultaneously supporting the club to hold further enjoyable events for all.

We invite all members to make the most of our fantastic facilities and competitive prices. Whether you’re enjoying a refreshing drink at our bar or hosting your personal celebrations and parties in our welcoming space, Stretford Cricket Club is the perfect place to create memorable moments.

Project New Clubhouse: A Vision for the Future

One of the most exciting developments is the Project New Clubhouse, a bold initiative to modernise the club’s facilities. This ambitious project aims to create a welcoming, state-of-the-art space for players and supporters alike. Fundraising is already underway, with a series of events planned throughout the year.

A standout initiative is Rob Renforth’s run to the Home of Cricket in March, where Rob will take on the incredible challenge of running the equivalent distance from Stretford to Lord’s Cricket Ground.

That’s over 10k a day throughout the month of March. This event has already captured the imagination of members and supporters, with donations pouring in.

You can continue to support Rob by donating through here:

Growing Sponsorship and Social Media Presence

The club has also seen a surge in sponsorship interest, with several new partners coming on board for the season. These collaborations will provide vital financial support while offering exciting promotional opportunities for sponsors across the community.

Additionally, Stretford CC’s social media presence is growing rapidly, with regular updates, match highlights, and key insights , keeping fans engaged and attracting new followers. We’re now on TikTok!

A Season of Promise

With five exciting new signings, expanded playing opportunities, a packed social calendar, and ambitious development plans, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Stretford Cricket Club. Whether you’re a player, supporter, or newcomer, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Let the season begin! Stay updated on all things Stretford CC by following the club’s social media channels and attending upcoming events. Together, we’ll make 2025 a season to remember

sccadmin Admin

Meet Our New Life Members: Recognising Dedication in Cricket.

Historically, the Life Member honour at the club was only awarded for cricket contributions in the 1st XI. The current committee have decided to modernise the honours system. We now want to recognise overall outstanding long term contributions to the club. Running a cricket club involves much more than simply donning a pair of pads. It also involves wielding a bat or chucking down a ball. It was all a wee bit out of date!

At the AGM last month, Gary Armstrong, Elizabeth Armstrong, and Ian Holding were nominated by the management committee. They were unanimously supported by the general membership to be elected as Life Members.

Gary took over as Chair of the club mid year. The club was in a perilous position both on and off the field. Liz took control of the club finances as Treasurer. Through blood, sweat and tears, she helped to turn the club around over 7 years. Together they saw the new build extension, disabled toilets and club refurbishment through to completion. They raised much needed funds due to a funding shortfall. They were at the helm when we raised £33K to relay the playing square which had become uneven. They always led by example. Their strategy was always to make sure the club was volunteer-led. Whenever there were projects to complete that needed people to join, they were always there getting their hands dirty. They prioritized wider community use to help safeguard the club’s future. Both played key roles in attracting new groups to use the club’s facilities. This helped secure funding from awarding bodies.

Gary and Liz were a great team. It’s very unfair to continue to lump their achievements at the club together. I will stop doing that now. They are two outstanding individuals. They throw themselves into every task and role they undertake. The club would not be here today without Gary Armstrong and Liz Armstrong.

Ian Holding was another person elected as a Life Member at the AGM. He did not play his first cricket game until the age of 45 but his contribution to the club has been priceless. He took over as groundsman 25 years ago and has not received a penny in wages – he refuses! (but does keep a running total in his head of how much money the club owes him). It’s not just his preparation of pitches or ground maintenance, or opening and closing the club, or cleaning the gutters, fixing the roof, cleaning the club house and emptying the bins that is so important for the club; he really does embody the spirit of the place. Everyone knows him and he’s one of the most generous and caring individuals you’ll ever meet. He has been refusing the Life Member honour for years because “it’s for old people” and there is plenty of life in the old dog yet however, we are delighted that he has now been elected.

We want to thank Gary, Liz, and Ian for their efforts and support of the club over many years. They set excellent examples for all our current members.

C Sharp Social

A Night at the Races – Saturday 25th May 8pm

All members and friends are invited to the club on Saturday 25th May to join in the fun at this gala event!
You’ve got a chance to win cool cash if you are lucky enough to pick a winning horse! The bar will be open and there is food available. The fun begins at 8pm.

There are prizes for owning a winning horse and presents for sponsorship a race and if you are interested in doing either please see John Foulkes at the bar or on 07817 590 055. It’s a fiver to own a horse or twenty quid to sponsor a race. As usual there will be an auction on race 9 and if you’re horse wins this race you”ll win from 50% of the auction pot.

man riding horse
Photo by Jose Ricardo Barraza Morachis on Pexels.com
C Sharp Uncategorised

Help Needed – Land Contamination, Ecology, Biodiversity Assessments for our Club House Rebuild Project

I’m leading on a project to rebuild the club house at Stretford and we are at the stage of applying for planning permission. However, pre-planning advice from the council says we need to conduct a land contamination assessment, ecology assessment & bio-diversity assessment to submit with our application. If anyone knows any consultantants or companies that might be able to help with some social value related activity or volunteering/pro-bono please contact me. The club is located on an old landfill site and is part of the green belt therefore the cost just to get to planning is considerable. And I mean considerable. Especially for an open access community cricket club that is already paying £6000 per year for electric (and thats with solar panels covering a third of our use)

exisiting clubhouse at Stretford Cricket Club