AN emerging Heywood Cricket Club talent put on a spectacular show for the Greater Manchester League’s Under-14s representative side.
Michael Witts, who has advertised his ability in Heywood sides up to 2nd X1 level, was selected as vice-captain for the League team against the Liverpool Competition at Woodbank.
And, despite the match eventually being curtailed by rain, the Heywood lad proved a massive hit with an innings of 135 not out in a total of 252-4 from 40 overs – before the monsoons set in during the tea break and washed out any chance of further play.
Witts proved the star of the show in the Manchester innings after opening the batting with Daniel Ainscough, of Clifton.
He was given an early lifeline when dropped at mid-wicket but then made the Liverpool team pay in spades.
Ainscough went for 37 after an opening stand of 74, then Aaryman Roy (Prestwich) was the victim of a freak run-out.
But Witts really began to blossom when joined by Matthew Hall, of the home club.
He reached his half-century in style, and the duo put together a fine partnership of 115 in 14 overs to take the Manchester team past the 200 mark.
Witts’ next landmark was his century, well received by the enthusiastic gathering of spectators, although Hall was a little unlucky to fall six runs short of his own half-century.
There was no stopping the Heywood lad, however, and he continued the momentum with Sam Rhodes (Walshaw) and Lewis Dolan (Flowery Field) as 51 runs came from the last five overs.
And although the weather then had the last say, it was a day that a 14-year-old from Heywood showed that he looks to have a bright future – and reflected great credit on the Crimble club’s junior system.
Well done young man.A memorable performance and one to build on.Best Wishes.