Although Southport ran out narrow winners in a closely contested game, the real difference between the sides was the superb fielding of Rod Mackenzie who took 7 catches.
Southport organiser Tony Elwood applauded the initiative, hatched during a chance meeting with his St Helen’s counterpart, George Davison, at Old Trafford in August, adding that he welcomed the challenge of inter-group competition and, whilst competitive, the match had been played in great spirit and was a tremendous advertisement for the walking game.
St Helen’s chairman Geoff Bowles added "We tasted defeat at the hands of our friends from Southport. It was a closely contested match played in a competitive but friendly manner. Most importantly Cricket was the winner once again."
Walking cricket is on the up throughout Lancashire, with new groups recently established in Burnley, Eccles, Trafford & Wythenshawe, with three others currently at the planning stage, presaging the exciting prospect of a Lancashire Cricket Foundation sponsored tournament in due course.
The Southport group, which meets at 11.00 am., each Thursday at Dunes Leisure Centre welcomes new members, male or female aged 50+. You don’t have to have played before & all equipment is provided.
The St Helen’s group meets on Wednesdays at 9.30 am., at Thatto Heath ARLFC sports barn.
Just turn up!