A CRICKET team that had to be saved by its dedicated members has completed an astonishing turnaround and won their league.

Green Moor under 15s girls’ was previously a mixed-gender team only, split evenly between boys and girls.

However, the team was facing issues as they regularly played against teams with a higher proportion of boys who were taller and stronger.

So a decision was made to create an all girls side and recruit new members to fill out the team.

“For the first time in the club’s history we decided to start a girls’ side,” club chairman, Phil Simpson, told the Chronicle.

“I think they particularly enjoyed it so we kept that group of girls and built out a new team.

“We then got to recruiting new players from places like the local grammar school.

“They all really put the work in and I think because they played mixed cricket before they didn’t realise just how good they were.”

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Due to the delays and issues with founding the team, they missed out on competing in the South Yorkshire League, but managed to take part in West Yorkshire instead, where they won the league.

Out of 11 matches in the season, this fledgling team won 10.

The team also received support from Sheffield-based business SMC Brownill Vickers who have sponsored their shirts.

Phil added: “They all play with enthusiasm and with great spirit.

“All season they’ve gone from strength to strength.

“But I received support from a lot of people to help this section improve.

“We’ve got a team of volunteers who help with running and sorting everything out - we’ve also had professional coaches come in to help.

“Parents have been heavily involved - it takes a lot of organising to make things work.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to all our players and also individuals who made this possible, in particular Donna Rhodes, Nigel and Declan Dowkes , and all parents who have been supportive throughout.”