Yorkshire Cricket Board

Sunday 8th May 2022 marks the start of a new league for women’s cricket in West Yorkshire. The six teams taking part are Lightcliffe CC, Pudsey St Lawrence CC, Crossflatts CC, Menston CC, St Chad’s CC and Bradford Park Avenue Ladies.

Demand for a regionalised league has been growing for a while, and the driving force behind the initiative is Phil Sharples, known to many through his work with the Halifax Junior Cricket League.

“I had been coaching Lightcliffe ladies, and it became clear that there was a demand for a women’s league which would not involve too much travel, and where teams could compete on a developmental level with flexibility. I had structures in place through HJCL so it wasn’t too difficult to set up a new league and invite teams across the region to take part”

Phil put in a successful bid to Sport England to acquire a pot of funding to help set things up.

“I was determined that finances should not be a barrier to any teams or players taking part, so I am delighted the application for the funding paid off to help get the league off the ground. It’s also great to have the support of Katie Stewart and Steve Archer from the YCB, I have every confidence that this league will go from strength to strength”

The fixtures for this Sunday are Lightcliffe CC V Pudsey St Lawrence CC and Crossflatts CC V Menston CC

Matches will generally be 30 overs, 11 a side, but flexibility will be offered where necessary.

Those who manage the teams are excited to get going. Andrew Morgan from Menston CC feels this is just what his ladies have been looking for, as they are fairly new to hardball cricket

“The team are really excited, if a little nervous, about playing in the league and equally looking forward to socialising with players from other clubs. We are trying to keep a balance between preparing to be competitive alongside ensuring everybody continues to be involved and has fun whatever the results are. We have played a few friendly matches in the last couple of seasons so have some experience but are expecting to come across some strong players and are looking forward to this new challenge.'

Manager of the girls team at Pudsey St Lawrence, Alex Dickson is also relishing the challenge.

“This is a first for Pudsey St Lawrence, and we are excited about the newly formed ladies league. This is a great opportunity for the older girls to continue to play cricket. We are really looking forward to the season”

Picture: Pudsey St Lawrence CC Girls Team