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Walsden Cricket Club’s junior players have enjoyed an unforgettable summer!
This small village club sits just inside West Yorkshire, but competes in the famously tough Lancashire Cricket League. And against all odds, they pulled off something extraordinary – winning the league at every single age group: Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, Under 15 (8-a-side), and Under 18. That’s five league titles in one season – an incredible achievement!
The success didn’t stop there:
- The Under 9s claimed a double, winning both league and cup.
- The Walsden Wildcazts (Girls U11s) won 5 out of 6 matches and are awaiting confirmation that they too may be crowned winners!
Walsden CC has a proud tradition of developing home-grown talent. Many trophies across both junior and senior levels have been lifted by local players. Back in 2018, when Walsden first joined the Lancashire League, all three senior sides – 1st, 2nd, and 3rd XI – won their leagues in the same season, a record that still stands today.
The Under 9s deserve a special mention. They have now won their league three years in a row, and this summer went unbeaten in all 14 games – a remarkable feat. So, what’s the secret? Lead Junior Coach Matt Dawson explains: “15 years ago we only had two junior teams and two senior teams. Now we’ve got 14 teams, including a girls’ side. It started with school visits and Friday night training for kids as young as 5. Many of those first players are now starring in the senior teams!”
Under 18s captain Ollie Davidson, who has been with Walsden since those Friday night sessions and is now 1st team wicket-keeper, adds: “Walsden’s junior season has been something really special, with winning the league and age-group wins showing just how far the team has come. Their success comes from the hours of graft in training and the effort they’ve put in every time they’ve played. I feel the key factor to the juniors’ success is that unlike most clubs, Walsden players come from Walsden. This means the players share friendships beyond cricket, so when they step onto the field, they’re playing alongside mates as well as teammates.”
Friday nights at Walsden are now a highlight of the week. The ground is full of children playing cricket, parents enjoying the social side, and a buzzing community atmosphere. Training sessions are designed to be fun, fast-paced, and creative – helping young players not just improve skills, but fall in love with the game. Behind the scenes, an army of parents and volunteers keep everything running – from coaching and events to fundraising and the junior committee.
With such passion, commitment, and success at every level, the future at Walsden Cricket Club!
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