Treble top for Saddleworth

SADDLEWORTH’S Steve Howard is bowled by Austerlands seamer Mohammed Irfan in yesterday’s clash at Thorpe Lane.

A CLINICAL display of power hitting confirmed Saddleworth’s first league title since 2004, and with it a superb trophy treble.

Brian Lord’s men took the SWB Commercials Saddleworth and District Cricket League crown with a game to spare after a crushing 133 runs home win over Stayley on Saturday.

While nearest rivals Glodwick lost five wickets before stepping over the finishing line at Wythenshawe on the same afternoon — they only needed 57 — the Well-i-Hole outfit stormed to victory in a truncated clash because of rain.

In a 23 overs match, Saddleworth piled up 255 for four, which included centuries from overseas amateur Michael Jones (119 not out) and Dave Roberts (100). Stayley were dismissed for 122 in reply.

In their final fixture of the season yesterday, Saddleworth brushed aside Austerlands by 96 runs at Thorpe Lane.

Professional Imran Aslam was difference between the two sides. The Pakistani, once employed by Austerlands, struck 123 out of 211 for eight and then took eight for 53.

The hosts were kicking themselves as they had the champions 12 for two and also saw an early stumping chance to dismiss Aslam go begging.

Glodwick remain second despite losing to Whalley Range yesterday, skittled for 98 in reply to 124. But they can be overtaken by Greenfield on the last day as the two teams meet at Ladhill Lane.

Greenfield enjoyed a six-wicket victory at home to Shaw on Saturday, before slamming South West Manchester by nine wickets yesterday.

The top three of Saddleworth, Glodwick and Greenfield are assured of their places in the new Pennine Cricket League’s top flight for next year, which leaves one place to fill. That’s between Austerlands and the side below them, Moorside, currently in fourth and fifth respectively.

Both teams saw their matches rained off on Saturday.