New-look Northop Hall begin 2021 cricket season in winning style

Northop Hall began their 2021 Liverpool and District Cricket Competition 1st XI First Division campaign in winning style with a 40-run success at Fleetwood Hesketh.

With new signings, ex-Denbigh all-rounder Harrison Jones, pace bowler Kieron New and batsman Will Higginson all included, the Flintshire side won the toss and elected to bat first at Sea Cop.

And it was a disappointing start as Hall were bowled out for just 106 in 33 overs, Joshua Andrady top-scoring with 29 not out and Michael Barnes adding 22, Steve Gregory 5-38 for the hosts.

Fleetwood appeared to be strong favourites for the victory, but the away attack prospered, the evergreen James Hurlin snaring a remarkable 5-5 off 3.1 overs.

Debutant spinner Jones claimed 2-17, Darren Leach 2-31 and New 1-13 from eight as the hosts collapsed from 33-2 to 66 all out.

Points went 21-5 in favour of Northop Hall, who host Newton-le-Willows next up.

Colwyn Bay will begin their Division One campaign at home to Ainsdale next Saturday, May 1.

In the 1st XI Second Division, Prestatyn kicked off with a heavy defeat at Wavertree.

The Liverpool side called the coin correctly and opted to bat, setting 229-9 off 55 overs.

Best bowling for the North Wales visitors came from Sheil Sethi with 4-70, Rohit Kaimal grabbing 2-48 and Adam Tidswell 2-74.

Prestatyn were bowled out for 127, opener Andy Taylor with a fine 57 and Kaimal 29. The pair put on 48 for the first wicket, but it all went downhill after that.

Points: Wavertree 25 Prestatyn 5.