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FINALISTS: Heywood aim for Wood Cup glory

Long wait over

HEYWOOD Cricket Club travel to Walsden on Sunday for their first Wood Cup final for 10 years. And the locals, who currently lie in third place in the Central Lancashire League, find themselves in the unusual role of favourites against lowly Milnrow.

But Heywood's opponents have knocked out champions, Littleborough, and Rochdale on their way to the final so there will be no room for complacency.

These are the men who will do battle for the Crimble outfit:

Mike Arnold: An inspirational skipper, who is still more than useful when batting up the order, "Arnie" has a very safe pair of hands in the field. Outside interests involve "spread" betting - it is easy to see it's not just the betting that's spreading! Mike was a member of Milnrow's Wood Cup winning team in 1996.
Johan Botha: The club professional hails from South Africa and his outstanding talent, with bat and ball, has revitalised the club's fortunes. Equally effective bowling off-spin as he is seam up his enthusiasm is contagious.
Craig Glancy: The club's overseas amateur Craig has quickly proved his prowess behind the stumps. The young Australian can also bat and his aggression and 110 per cent attitude makes him an important player within the team. Outside interests? He is Australian after all !
Bobby Cross: Opening batsman of great promise as shown with his 949 runs last season. A part of Lancashire Cricket Club young Bobby is certainly a chip of the old block- Dad David and Uncle Bob both served the club with distinction. Smart in the field Bobby is also keenly developing his leg spin bowling to some effect.
Gary Wilkinson: Easily indentified as the club's all-rounder ("who ate all the pies"), "Wilkie" is a firm favourite of the fans with his entertaining batting and his magnificent catching in the outfield. Often turns up trumps when difficulties arise - especially when the heavy roller breaks down.
Lee Grogan: Local boy with great determination. His 'in your face' attitude and vocal leadership makes him a valuable team member. Top class fielder.
Chris Kaye: Former skipper and only surviving member of Heywood's last Wood Cup winning team in 1993. An excellent all-round cricketer batting in the middle order and bowling off-spin. A player with match winning qualities.
Jonathan Shaw: In his first season with the club the Bury youngster proved his ability with the bat with a mature batting display at Radcliffe in the Challenge Trophy. He is also capable of keeping wicket if required. An excellent youthful addition to the club.
Barry Hamilton: Another player in his first season at the club- but a player of much experience. His previous spell amoungst the "pro" ranks have given him the confidence, and knowledge, to inject belief into his new team-mates and his medium paced bowling and aggressive batting have lifted his side to victory (Stand last Saturday)
Richard Purser: Since his return from Middleton Rick has proved a valuable addition to the club as a player, committee man and as someone with an interest in ground maintainance. His calm and sensible approach to the game of cricket is admirable - a role model for youngsters.
Will Purser: Yet another chip of the old block. Continuing the splendid line of Pursers, grandad Ray and father Richard who both played for Heywood, Will has the potential to top the lot. An opening bowler of pace and accuracy the 19--year-old has re-invented himself as an all-rounder. A number of quality knocks late in the order have boosted the final total and, on some occasions, have decided the "outcome" in Heywood's favour. He has benefited from a winter in Australia.
Stephen Wallwork: After spells in the Seconds, and a job that required Saturday shifts, Stephen has forced his way into the First team squad. Useful in all departments - batting, bowling and in the field - the 23-year-old local lad has every opportunity to enjoy a wonderful cricket career.
Robert Slawson: Another 23-year-old who has progressed through the ranks to develop into a most competent cricketer. Determination and regular attendance at nets has seen a rapid improvement in his off-spin and, allied to his capability with the bat, although at the tail end - Rob is an invaluable part of the team.
Terry Nicholls: Terry's duties are described as First team coach and adviser. There is no doubt that his regular attendance at nets plays an important part in the continuing improvement of the clubs mature players as well as the youngsters working their way through the ranks. It's said that practice makes perfect.

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