Author name: Ian Roberts

So, in the end there was no fairytale. The 1s ended the season in the relegation zone and are looking towards Division 3 cricket next year. It was always a tough task, needing to beat a strong Cheadle Hulme side to stay up, and despite the lads trying their hardest we could not compete with a side a class above us. The bare bones of the result were that our guests posted 280-3 off 40 overs, based on a 190 2nd wicket partnership between Ollie Willett and Adam Wilde, Willett ending on 150 not out. In reply our quest for quick runs faltered as we lost wickets, resulting in us being bowled out for 150. There were a few “what ifs?” along the way. What if the catch off veteran Adam Wilde had not been off a no ball? What if the rain had stayed away from our game in the same way it stayed away from Haslington? What if Ashley had rocked up at Haslington with a stronger side than they did? But our relegation was determined less by our (and others) efforts on Saturday and more by us falling short in the 1st half of the season. The final table doesn’t lie and it shows us that we have underperformed. We have more talent than our performances would suggest and our focus will need to be on bouncing back strongly in 2026. The way we have fought over the last few weeks shows we have the heart and club spirit to turn things around and with younger players emerging, next season could be a very exciting fresh start. That spirit was seen in the 2s who demolished Stockport. A strong bowling effort blew our hosts away for just 70, with the wickets shared around. In reply we got over the line for the loss of just 4 wickets. The season has been a fine one for the 2s who finished in a comfortable mid table position. The younger players who have made their mark in the team will be pressing for chances in the 1s next term. So that’s it for the year. Not the outcome we wanted but throughout the season all players have represented the club in the finest traditions of Ashton. We play the game in the best way, respecting the game and our opponents, recognising that we are honoured to be part of the greatest game of all. Above all we play with a smile and enjoy the time we spend with the friends we make at this wonderful club. Winter well and let’s do this again in 2026. Be sure to come and join us over the autumn and winter for our social events, football matches, a game of pool/darts or just to check in for a drink and a chat!