Cricketing ladies hit it off despite the weather

The miserable weather failed to dampen spirits as coach Kay Baig, the Director of Activities R Us, together with Lancashire Cricket Foundation and Pro Elite Sports, enjoyed a fantastic launch of Ladies Soft Ball Cricket in Oldham at Werneth Cricket Club.

Having located an indoor sports centre, the ladies started their day with a warm up by fitness trainer Talat Rehman. 

After a brief coaching session with Kay, the ladies played a number of matches. 

Level 2 cricket coach Melissa Kay was on hand to umpire on the day. 

The atmosphere was fun and lively, with music and food stalls adding to the sense of occasion.

The Mayoress of Oldham, Tasleem Akhtar, and former ICC Pakistan and World Cup 1996 umpire, Mian Aslam, watched the matches and later presented the ladies with medals and trophies. 

The winners were Elle’s Team, while runners-up were the Werneth Warriorettes.

Third place went to Hit and Run, who played well and also received medals.  

Molly Taylor won the Player of the Tournament Trophy - sponsored by Pro Elite Sports - after she showed some wonderful skills.

Mayoress of Oldham Mrs Akhtar said: “I watched the ladies play cricket, and they are as talented as men.

"This talent should be developed. This has been a very good event for the ladies, and for Oldham.”  

Kay Baig, who is a community and multi-sports peak performance coach, started organising the tournament months ago.

She said: “The heavens opened but there was no way we were going to let rain stop play.

"We made a commitment to these wonderful ladies and wanted to deliver a fun and exciting game for them. 

"The ladies have all enjoyed the softball cricket and are interested in signing up to receive coaching sessions to learn how to play cricket properly. 

"Thanks to our special guests, all our sponsors, and Lancashire Cricket Foundation for giving us this opportunity.”

Werneth Cricket Club chairman Andrew Walker said: “The event was a great success. 

"All the ladies played very well.

"Werneth Cricket Club are very keen on developing a ladies team as well as recruiting more children and lads to train at the club.”

For more information on joining sessions at Werneth Cricket Club, email: sec.wernethcbtc@live.co.uk

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