Cleckheaton send holders Hoylandswaine tumbling

Action Shot: Cleckheatons Ian Nicholson is bolwed by Danny Mulhall in the Black Sheep Champions Trophy clash, while Jimmy Lee sends down a delivery during the Hoylandswaine innings.

It was an historic day at Moorend, as Cleckheaton played their first game in the Champions Trophy following their first Bradford League title success last year.

A decent crowd watched Cleckheaton make a good start as openers Andy Gorrod (38) and Tim Jackson (27) produced a 72-run first-wicket stand to put the home side on the front foot.

Former Hanging Heaton wicketkeeper Alan Mynett prompted a Hoylandswaine fightback when he stumped Jackson.

Michael Cramner, Ryan Robinson, Richard Wilkinson, Pal Singh and Danny Mulhall claimed two wickets apiece as Cleckheaton were bowled out for 204 in the final over.

Cleckheaton were indebted to Ian Nicholson’s knock of 56, including three sixes and four fours, for taking them past the 200 mark.

Cleckheaton felt their total was below par and, without the services of opening bowler Iain Wardlaw, away with the Scotland squad, they faced a stern challenge from a Hoylandswaine side, known for their batting strength.

Ian Wood, brother of captain John, led the Cleckheaton attack, with a fine spell of 3-30.

Despite a break following heavy rain, Cleckheaton continued to turn the screw and overseas leg spinner Tanzeel Altaf picked up 4-27 as Hoylandswaine were bowled out for 148.

Wilkinson made 32 and another ex-Hanging Heaton man, Alex Morris 31, but Hoylandswaine came up short of their target.

Townville travel to Beckwithshaw in the remaining quarter-final, with the winners away to South Yorkshire side Elsecar in the last four.