Cricket league to break new ground

The Shropshire Premier Cricket League will break new ground in 2009 – by functioning with more than 12 clubs for the first time in its 39-year-history.

Much Wenlock and Broseley were both guaranteed their place in the Marston’s-backed League at an executive committee meeting last night.

And that means 14 clubs will now do battle for the prestigious title next year.

Wenlock’s future had been placed in doubt because proposals for a new pavilion to be constructed in time for the start of next season were shelved by 12 months to allow the club to pursue improved plans.

And that received the backing of representatives from other clubs who voted 10-2 in favour of Wenlock – who will install temporary shower and toilet facilities for next year – being given an extra 12 months to complete their ground improvements.

“We are very happy with the outcome,” said chairman Gary Holland. “We have made some massive strides over the last couple of years and this would have been a big setback to us. We are very pleased and grateful for the support we have received from the other clubs.”

That decision gave bottom club Broseley a reprieve from relegation, with league officials determined not to run with an odd number of clubs.

Reman Services had also previously rejected the chance to apply for promotion to the Birmingham League, meaning the 12 teams from last season will be joined by relegated Oswestry and FBC Manby Bowdler champions Allscott.

Next season’s Chronicle Twenty20 Knockout will not be open to Birmingham Leagues clubs for the first time.

The 14 Marston’s League teams will now be joined by the second and third placed teams from last season’s FBC Manby Bowdler League – Worfield and Cound.

Marston’s League chairman Mike Robinson said: “We felt that was fair because the Birmingham League teams are involved in their own League Twenty20 Knockout.”