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Moonrakers hit by summer rains

26/ 7/2007

THIS IS now, officially, the worst season for Central Lancashire League cricket since limited overs were introduced in 1968.

Middleton have had seven of 19 first-team fixtures abandoned without a ball being bowled, and of the 12 games which started only four have escaped rain free.

The weather has been bad news for the Moonrakers who badly need the income from match days to keep afloat.

Skipper John Punchard said: "Having played league cricket since 1973 I can honestly say I've never known a summer quite like this for cancellations.

"What's made it more fustrating is that the games we have played have usually been in damp conditions or under grey skies.

"I can recall only two matches this season played purely in sunshine."

At least Middleton have had a match in July. Several CLL clubs have not got onto the pitch during the month.

Last weekend brought more disappointment for local cricket lovers when the Moonrakers home match against Milnrow failed to start.

It was decided to wait until 3pm to see if a start could be made to a reduced overs match, but 15 minutes before that deadline a downpour hit Towncroft and the captains decided on calling it a day.

There are now only 11 league fixtures left this season, and it can only be hoped August brings a little sunshine.

The rain also hit Middleton's third team on Sunday when they went out of the Roydes Trophy.

Middleton restricted Royton to a score of 123 at The Paddock, Michael McNeill and Lee Flint each claiming three wickets.

But only two overs were possible before Middleton's reply was ended by rain.

Two hours later it was decided on a bowl out. Middleton were 2-0 up at one stage but Royton levelled then snatched a win in sudden death.

Thornham were also hit by the rain last weekend.

Their Saturday match was washed out.

On Sunday they started their Lancashire County League Walkden Cup tie at Woodhouses.

James Scott hit 122 in a total of 232 for nine.

Due to more rain Woodhouses didn't start their reply until Monday night. They had scored 162 for five when bad light stopped play.

The winners will play Prestwich on Sunday 5 August.