07/09/2026
Message from the Chairman
As the season draws to a close and the pitch renovations commence, I’d like to extend my thanks to all the committee members. You know what you do — from admin, accounting, stock control, marketing and social media, to mention just a few of the many tasks undertaken throughout the season.
A huge thank you to the grounds team — Clive, Nathan and Andy — along with everyone else who has supported them along the way. They have presented a playing facility as good as any in the league.
Our Junior team, now at the end of their second season, continue to grow and develop both on and off the field and are a credit to their parents and coaches, Stephen and Nathan.
Congratulations to Alex Eatough and her army of ladies, and to everyone who helped make the Ladies Cricket Day such a success. Another cap doffed to the BBQ team!
Thanks also to our non-playing members and volunteers. A special mention must go to Pat Peet, who never stops putting a shift in — cleaning, serving and taking care of the general housekeeping around the ground.
There are many others who do their bit. I don’t see everyone, but I know the Junior parents and the captains’ wives and girlfriends have been integral in keeping the bar and social areas functioning, alongside the painters, cleaners and everyone who helps with the general upkeep.
To the skippers: perhaps not as much success as they would have liked at times, but there have been some outstanding team and individual performances, with centuries, half-centuries and five-wicket hauls to celebrate.
As a club, we have also benefited from an informal collaboration with our friends and neighbours at Highfield Cricket Club. This has seen some of their junior players develop under the dual-registration banner.
A highlight was young Matthew McIntyre’s half-century, putting on a partnership of around 70 runs with his brother Josh to win the Second Team game. In that match, the three youngest participants — Matt, Josh (4 for 15) and Nathan Rigby — took eight of the ten wickets.
Somewhat appropriately, the other two wickets were taken by their captain and junior coach, whose vision and communication have helped form a bridge between the clubs. Regular ground sharing and players supporting teams have helped keep cricket thriving in the wider community and, most importantly, provided ability-appropriate opportunities to those who wish to develop in the game.
First Team Captain Nathan Twiss has chosen to stand down after two years at the helm. He has led the side with decency and integrity while achieving some exceptional personal performances along the way.
During his stewardship, there hasn’t been a single disciplinary matter involving his team. His unselfish approach as a club volunteer means he is always willing to go above and beyond. This year, he has taken on a leading role with the grounds team as well as serving as a Junior Coach.
That contribution has been recognised by the Lancashire Cricket Foundation, which named him Coach of the Year, and he is now in consideration for the national award. A fantastic achievement.
Thanks to everyone who has crossed the boundary rope and played for the club this season and in years gone by. You have all represented the club well.
Being on the field when Ian Atkinson took his 500th club wicket was a personal highlight for me. But, honestly, sitting back and watching a player take their first wicket excites me just as much.
There have been some excellent performances this season. The Ward centurions, Josh with 137 not out and Adam with 111, were the standout First Team batting performances.
With the ball, Josh Ward produced an outstanding 5 for 3 against Winstanley Park, while Mike Lawton also claimed a five-wicket haul against BSM.
For the Second Team, James Barlow’s 74 was the standout batting performance, while Rohit Kale, Gary McIntyre and Josh McIntyre all recorded four-wicket hauls.
A huge thank you must also go to our sponsors, whose continued support makes a real difference to the club and helps us provide the facilities and opportunities we sometimes take for granted.
Thanks also to everyone who attends our social events, supports our fundraising, buys tickets, donates prizes or simply puts their hand in their pocket for the club. Every contribution helps and, as always, your support is very much appreciated.
Finally, thank you to all our members, visitors, league representatives, scorers, umpires and opposition teams.
As I’ve often said, my club motto is:
“If everyone does a bit, a lot gets done.”
It’s now that time of year when we ask for some hands-on help at the ground to support the end-of-season renovations. Please do your bit as we push on towards the 2027 season.
for GGCC 💚🏏
Mike
