Cricket leagues: merger talks

THE Central Lancashire League and Saddleworth and District Cricket League have held preliminary talks over a possible merger.

Officials met to discuss the potential of the two competitions joining forces, and further meetings are planned. With the new Greater Manchester league looming large on the horizon in 2016, it is feared any significant reduction in numbers as clubs jump ship could put either of the two leagues in jeopardy.

Both long-standing competitions have already advertised for new clubs but, with only so many to go round, the best way forward could be to work together.

Trevor Harrison, secretary of the Saddleworth League, said: “Informal talks have taken place, with further discussions to follow. It is about safeguarding the future of those clubs who don’t wish to join the Greater Manchester league.

“The Saddleworth League met with senior representatives of the clubs last night and we’ve been given a mandate for further consultations.”

Saddleworth League clubs Whalley Range and Wythenshawe have already pinned their colours to the GM league mast, while South West Manchester has indicated they will resign.

Moorside has applied and Glodwick is expected to follow suit. If all five go, there would be only 10 clubs in the league next year.

Now negotiations with the CLL are underway, the Saddleworth League has extended its cut-off point for members to resign until the end of August.

Stayley has sworn allegiance to the Saddleworth League, while only last night Littleborough joined Rochdale in confirming commitment to the CLL.

Depending on numbers, any merger could feature up to three divisions, with promotion and relegation which the CLL already offers in its two-section structure.

The new GM league has so far attracted 31 clubs, including the North Manchester League en bloc and the majority of those in the Lancashire County League.