As a lot of you might already be aware, Leadgate have withdrawn their 1st X1 from Division 1 for the 2022 season due to a lack of available bodies to remain competitive. They will still exist as a team in Division 5 where they will compete alongside our 2nd X1 in Division 5 South.

Off the back of this news, we have welcomed both Robbie Hockaday and Craig Burke to the fold at Consett. Both Robbie and Craig have been solid performers at 1st X1 level for quite a while now and will certainly add strength to an already powerful team at Blackfyne. They both come from strong cricketing families and take their roles on the field very seriously. something that will help us to remain extremely competitive when looking to defend our NTCL Division 1 title.

Craig is an opening batsman who has played for Sacriston, Blaydon and Leadgate and he will also provide an excellent back up option as wicket-keeper to be able to deputise for regular gloveman John Chapman should it be required. Robbie has been at Leadgate for many years now where he has always batted in the top order and is also more than capable of turning his arm over for a few overs when required. Both lads were pretty much ever present in the Leadgate team in 2021 so can be relied upon to turn up week in, week out and turn in solid performances for the steel men.

We welcome them both to the club and look forward to seeing them in action. We are sure they will both be an excellent fit!