Heywood Cricket Club, based at Crimble in the heart of the town, has a proud history stretching back over 150 years. Known for producing homegrown talent and creating a welcoming community atmosphere, the club fields four senior sides and a thriving junior section.
This year has been one of the most successful in recent times, with the 1st XI writing a new chapter in the club’s history. The 1st XI completed a remarkable league and cup double, winning the GMCL Championship and the GMCL Championship Cup. Promotion to the GMCL Premier II Division was secured with a few weeks to spare, and the cup was lifted in dramatic fashion after a nail biting victory over old rivals Milnrow in a packed final at Roe Green, a game that will live long in the memories of all that were there.
Richard Slatem finished the season as the league’s leading wicket-taker with 68 wickets, underlining his consistency and match-winning ability. Marty Walters and Riley Mackay both finished in the top 10 league run scorers, Walters passing 600 runs with a brilliant century at Hadfield. Behind the stumps, Wes Hunt led the entire league with 32 dismissals. With the ball, Will Purser, and professional Greg Butterworth featured alongside Slatem in the division’s top 10 wicket-takers. The team effort was reflected in every department, with key contributions right through the side.
League-winning captain Bobby Cross said: “This group has been fantastic from day one. The commitment, skill, and team spirit has shone through every week. To win the league unbeaten until the final few weeks shows the consistency of the players and the depth of talent we now have at the club.”
Cup-winning captain Will Purser added: “Winning silverware is always special, but to lift the cup in front of such incredible support made it unforgettable. Every player has stepped up this season, and to deliver the double is a huge reward for the hard work that goes in across the whole club.”
With promotion secured and the club back in the top flight, Heywood CC is determined to keep building on this success. The commitment to producing local talent, improving facilities, and engaging the community remains at the heart of everything the club does.
