After a few months of hibernation from social media, we wanted to bring members up to speed with what’s been happening at Norden Cricket Club. While things may have been quiet online, rest assured the Cricket Committee has been working hard throughout the off-season.
AGM Reminder
Firstly, a reminder that the club’s AGM takes place this Thursday 29th January, starting at 7:45pm. All members are encouraged to attend.
Junior Cricket
Our junior section is already back up and running, with age-group training taking place at Falinge Park on Tuesdays and Fridays.
We’re also delighted to announce that the club has launched its first ever all-girls team, with the creation of a new Under 11s side.
Training for this group starts on Thursday 5th February, 6:00–7:00pm at Norden Primary School. Sessions are open to girls in Years 4, 5 and 6 and are completely free.
If your child would like to get involved, please contact the club by DM.
Senior Cricket
The senior section has strengthened well over the winter, with several home-grown players re-signing alongside some new faces.
As announced at the end of last season, the club’s professional for 2026 will be James Price. South African-born, James has lived in the UK for the past eight years and now calls Norden home — complete with a distinctive South African/Rochdale twang.
Speaking ahead of the new season, Price said:
“I’m really looking forward to the 2026 season and being part of a talented and exciting playing squad. I’m hoping we can bring some success to this well-supported club.”
- 1st XI – Captain: Lee Crabtree
- T20 XI – Captain: Dom Humphreys
- 2nd XI – Captain: Philip Docker
- 3rd XI – Captain: David Bebb
- 4th XI – Captain: Jimmy Drury
While the 4th XI will not be entered into an official league this season, the club is keen to arrange a number of friendly fixtures to help introduce new players to senior cricket.
The first three dates identified are:
- Saturday 2nd May
- Sunday 17th May
- Sunday 7th June
Any clubs interested in reciprocal home and away fixtures are invited to DM us.
The senior indoor nets start next Wednesday, the 4th of February, running for 8 weeks. The sessions will be held at PA Sports in Bury from 18:00 – 20:00.
Social Events
The senior squad’s first social of the year takes place on Saturday 7th February with Beer Pong. There are a few places remaining — details on how to sign up are available in the clubhouse.
Ground Force Day
Our annual Ground Force Weekend will be held on:
- Saturday 28th March
- Sunday 29th March
from 10:00am – 12:00pm on both days.
All players, parents, members and supporters are encouraged to attend and help get Stag Park ready for the season ahead.
Pre-Season Fixtures
Three pre-season fixtures have been scheduled:
- Blackpool (A) – 4th April
- Sefton Park (A) – 11th April
- 1st XI vs 2nd XI mixed scratch match (Stag Park) – 12th April
The league season then gets underway on Sunday 19th April.
Fixtures & Sponsorship
Wallet-sized fixture cards are now available from the club — completely free of charge.
As always, we have Player (£100), Match (£300) and Ball (£50) sponsorships available. Please DM us or call into the club for more details.
If you’ve made it this far, thank you. We hope you’re looking forward to the new season as much as we are.
To quote the late, great Richard Bonsor…
“11 weeks on Sunday. Can’t wait.”
Your Norden Cricket Club Cricket Committee