Crossbanks Methodists target Central League move

The team, which has played in the Huddersfield Central League for more than 20 years, is currently in the process of applying, and recently underwent an inspection of its clubhouse facilities.

Subject to approval from the league, Crossbank could start playing in the new league next season.

Club President Andrew Wood said: “There’s various things we have to satisfy, one of which is the pitch and clubhouse requirements.

“These aren’t an issue and we had the inspectors down last month, but we are currently in the process of building a new clubhouse because we want a bigger one.

“We also need to have a junior section so we have started under 11s and will hopefully have under 13s and under 9s to follow next year.

“We are actively teaching and educating and have a professional coach teaching at various local schools.”

As well as playing against local teams, participation in the Central Yorkshire League will open up a new range of possibilities for Crossbank, including foreign players.

They would also be able to recruit professional players, but Mr Wood insists the proposed move is down to a combination of factors.

He said: “There’s various reasons: not only the high level of cricket but the quality of facilities and travelling also played a part.

“We have played in Holmfirth and Penistone regularly so having clubs in the M62 corridor will be much easier.

“I hope we can get foreign players. In our current league we aren’t allowed professional players, or to pay our players.

“We are hoping to attract better players, we aren’t short of players but we want to compete at a high standard and push for the Premier League.

“We also want local talent and after the junior section to look at a girls team.”

The club is currently in a healthy financial state, and regularly takes part in fundraising activities for local and national charities.

In June, Crossbank held a race night in the clubhouse, raising more than £500 for charity.