Longridge Cricket Club youngsters have proven their worth in the Northern League
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The veteran fast bowler – who has taken more than 900 wickets at first-team level – was arguably the high-profile casualty of captain Nick Wilkinson and the selection committee’s policy of giving their highly-rated youngsters an opportunity this summer.
He has played only a handful of games in the first team this season – with young players such as Rhys Morgan, Caleb Bradford, William Vause and Jake Durnell drafted into the first team.
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Hide AdThe youngsters have certainly not been out of their depth with Longridge – who host Chorley this weekend – currently riding high in second spot in the Northern League Division One.
They still have an outside chance of reeling in runaway leaders Blackpool – remarkable considering the club made a conscious decision to go into this season without a professional.
“We have gone through a change internally,” said 40-year-old Simpson.
“I have sort of stepped down and part of the bowling attack I think is made up of three teenagers.
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Hide Ad“Last weekend Jake Durnell came into the team and he’s only 16 and I think he’s in again this weekend.
“Caleb Bradford is only 16 and then you have got Will Vause – he is only 17.
“Will has played for Lancashire seconds this week and he’s an absolute talent.
“So we have done quite well this season considering we have been without a professional and have a combined age of my age opening the bowling.”
This weekend's fixtures
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Hide AdNorthern League Division One: Blackpool v Morecambe, Fleetwood v Kendal, Lancaster v Leyland, Longridge v Chorley, Netherfield v Garstang, St Annes v Fulwood and Broughton.
Moore and Smalley Palace Shield Premier Division: Eccleston v Barrow, Fylde v Croston, Great Eccleston v Penwortham, Kirkham and Wesham v South Shore, Penrith v Thornton Cleveleys, Preston v Vernon Carus.
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