North East Premier League Week 5 Preview
The weather is set fair for this Saturday, and with no major football occurring in the region, why not go catch a local cricket game at the highest level under professionals?
Another action packed day of Premier Division cricket is upon us, with action at both ends of the table and a lot of big-name players involved.
All games are 50 overs win/loss format starting at 11:30.
Chester-le-Street vs Felling – Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street.
The joint league leaders head to one of the most successful clubs in the history of the league in what promises to be a mouth watering clash of the titans. Felling have a number of very talented Durham University students in their ranks, including Middlesex and London Spirit batsman Joe Cracknell. Whilst Chester-le-Street have an experienced side led by John Coxon with a mix of young Durham Academy cricketers including Robbie Dawson and Stanley McAlindon.
Benwell Hill vs Whitburn – Denton Bank, Newcastle upon Tyne.
The Hill’ host Sunderland-based Whitburn this Saturday in another highly contested clash. Benwell are led by Scotland captain and opening batsman Kyle Coetzer, who has been with them a number of years alongside a talented group of cricketers of which multiple represent Northumberland CCC. Whitburn are led by ex-Durham star Jack Burnham who has taken to league cricket impressively, along with ex-Northants batsman Vishal Tripathi in a strong batting lineup. This clash is bound to be a high-scoring one!
Burnmoor vs Burnopfield – Village Ground, Houghton-le-Spring.
The 2019 league champions host Burnopfield this weekend in a clash between two unpredictable sides. Burnmoor have one of the strongest squads in the division, with current and ex-Durham players Graham Clark, Ryan Pringle and Josh Coughlin all on their books expected to play tomorrow. Burnopfield are much the same with current and ex-Durham players Brydon Carse and Gareth Breese in their ranks. Burnopfield’s opening batsman John Oswell scored a magnificent 194 last week, so be there if you want fireworks!
Eppleton vs Newcastle – Church Road, Hetton-le-Hole
Eppleton host Newcastle tomorrow hoping to end their currently winless start to the season. A youthful Newcastle side travels to face an experienced Eppleton one with current Durham and Northumberland academy players heavily represented, for example George Darwood, Tomas Mackintosh, Liam Trevaskis and Jake Pratt likely to be in the teams.
South Northumberland vs Tynemouth – Roseworth Terrace, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Last season’s league champions host Tynemouth in a clash of two highly respected clubs in the Premier Division. South North have been hit with injuries this season but still have Northumberland’s Sol Bell and Oliver McGee in their team. Tynemouth have a very strong XI with a number of county players involved including Michael Jones and Stuart Poynter. You may even see Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff turn out for them, as he is known to play for the Croons’ when available!
Sunderland vs Hetton Lyons – Ashbrooke, Sunderland
The joint lead leaders Hetton Lyons head to Sunderland hoping to maintain their unbeaten run into the 6th week. Sunderland are blessed with ex-Australian international Will Bosisto and current Scottish stars Safayaan Sharif and Hamza Tahir. The Lyons’ have an experienced squad full of ex-Durham county players such as Gary Scott and wicket-keeper Jarvis Clay.
