Batting star

Photo: Chris Bull

Mike Atherton at the opening of The Micheal Atherton Sports Hall.

OLDHAM cricketing legend Mike Atherton returned to his old school as an opener!

The former England skipper, who hails from Failsworth and began his career at Woodhouses Cricket Club, opened Manchester Grammar School’s new state-of-the-art sports hall which is named in his honour.

Pupils, teachers and alumni of the school gathered for the unveiling of the two-storey facility which replaces the original after it was damaged by severe weather last year.

“Sport has always played a fundamental role in MGS life and this has been reflected by the number of talented sporting figures the school has produced across such a wide range of disciplines,” said Mike.

“This facility will provide an excellent venue for MGS to host other schools, for pupils to hone their skills and to one day to go on to represent their school, county or even country.

“I very much enjoyed my time at MGS and I’m proud to have been asked to come back and officially open the sports hall which will be used by the school for generations to come.”

During his time at the school between 1979 to 1986, Mike captained the school’s cricket team, scoring almost 3,500 runs and taking 170 wickets.

He went on to captain England, aged just 25. After retiring, he became a highly respected sports journalist and broadcaster, writing for The Times and working for Sky Sports.

In March, 2010, he won Sports Journalist of the Year at the British Press Awards.

Dr Martin Boulton, high master at Manchester Grammar School, said: “It is an absolute privilege to have Michael here today. We are delighted he has returned to open this fantastic new sports hall.”