Saddleworth set early pace

Photo: PICTURE by PAUL STERRITT.

CRASH OF ASH . . . Shaw’s Pip Taylor is bowled by Saddleworth’s Dave Roberts.

CRICKET:

AN IMRAN Aslam-inspired Saddleworth have stolen an early march in the SWB Commercials Saddleworth and District Cricket League.

In one of only two matches played to a finish on Saturday, the Well-i-Hole club managed enough

playing time to beat Shaw by 10 wickets.

After reducing their opponents to 98 all out — there was a weather interruption of two hours in the innings — they then set about reaching the target.

Pro Aslam smashed an unbeaten 83 off just 24 balls, hitting seven sixes and nine fours as Saddleworth clinched victory in half a dozen overs of carnage.

There were two stand-out performances at Greenfield’s at Ladhill Lane ground, where Michael Bird scored 119 from 56 balls in the hosts’ total of 262 for nine against Droylsden.

Skipper Mike Schofield picked up five for 70, including four wickets in four balls. The visitors were dismissed for 176 in reply.

Sunday’s action saw leaders Saddleworth, with Darren Shadford making 66, sweep aside Micklehurst by 103 runs, while nearest rivals Moorside beat Wythenshawe by nine wickets.

Reigning champions Glodwick slipped to their second loss of 2015, with Austerlands the conquerors at Warren Lane. It was a good effort by Mark Peters’ side who, after two open dates and a rain-affected fixture, were completing their first match of the season. There were wins for Shaw — their first of the campaign — Whalley Range and Greenfield.



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