Cricket fixtures released: Preston visit old foes Chorley in first game of 2026 cricketing summer
Chorley will renew acquaintances with old rivals Preston when the new cricket season gets under way in April.
This summer’s fixtures have been released for the Northern Cricket Pyramid which incorporates both the Northern Premier League (NPL) and the Palace Shield (PS).
Like last year, Northern League clubs’ first competitive fixtures will be in the 40 Over Cup group stages before the league campaign begins in week three.
Having spent the last seven seasons in the PS following relegation in 2018, Preston are back in the NPL after finishing second behind Morecambe last season.
Their first test will be a trip to Windsor Park to face Chorley on April 18. Reigning cup holders Garstang will begin their defence with the long trip north to face Carlisle.
Last year’s beaten finalists Leyland will head to Stanley Park to take on Blackpool, while Longridge host St Annes.
Fulwood & Broughton will entertain Barrow and Penwortham travel to face Euxton.
The first round of league fixtures in the NPL take place on Saturday, May 2 with last year’s Division One runners-up Garstang opening their campaign against Settle at the Riverside.
Chorley travel to Carlisle, Leyland entertain Blackpool and Longridge are at home to Netherfield. Reigning champions Kendal travel to 2025 Division Two champions St Annes.
Division Two has been extended to 12 teams this year with Lytham and Whalley joining from the Liverpool Competition and North West Cricket League respectively.
Euxton will make the trip to Lytham on the opening day, while F&B host Whalley. Penwortham take on Great Eccleston at Middleforth Green and Preston travel to Barrow.
The PS’s Premier Division will now be known as the Amateur Championship, with the opening weekend of the season scheduled for April 18.
Relegated Vernon Carus travel to Penrith and Eccleston host Heysham. Garstang’s second team will begin at Fylde.