Lancashire Teams Make Their Mark at Chance to Shine Street Nationals

Lancashire teams enjoyed a hugely successful trip to the Chance to Shine Street National Competition last week, with sides from Blackburn, Preston and Bolton representing the county across the Young Adults, Girls and Youth competitions.

There were national titles, impressive performances and plenty of memorable moments, with Blackburn claiming two National Championships across an outstanding three days of competition.

 

Blackburn Young Adults crowned National Champions

The Blackburn team produced one of the standout performances of the tournament, lifting the National Crown after a sensational final.

They dismissed their opponents for a remarkable team score of just 2 runs, completing a memorable victory and securing the national title. Blackburn also enjoyed success in the Girls competition, with the team coached by Jean and Farouk producing a series of brilliant team displays to lift the National Title.

The club's Under-12 boys also enjoyed a fantastic run to the National Final, winning five games on their way and scoring more than 200 runs during the competition. They narrowly missed out in the final, while the Blackburn Under-15 girls were also unfortunate to fall at the semi-final stage after a thrilling match decided by a super over.

Blackburn coach Farouk commented:

"We had an amazing three days at Nationals this year. The U12s girls and Young Adults both crowned as National Champions. Whist the U12 boys narrowly lost the final and the U15 girls losing in the semi-final in a super over. All the hard work during the year paid off with exceptional team and individual performances throughout the three days.”

Preston praised for spirit and determination

Preston were represented in the Young Adults competition and impressed throughout the event, with their players showing excellent attitude, determination and team spirit.

Coach Safvan Yusuf was recognised for his contribution by receiving the Inspiring Coach Award, a fitting recognition of his work supporting the players and helping them enjoy the experience.

Preston coach Zahoor said: " it was really good to see all the players in our teams so happy and excited to be playing on the day. Overall, it was a very enjoyable day for both Preston teams who took part in the Young Adults competition and something was learnt for everyone about how to do it better in future competitions."

" All the Preston boys did us proud with good attitude and everyone is looking forward to next years event."

Bolton make their mark on the national stage

Bolton Under-15s also represented Lancashire with great energy and enthusiasm throughout the day, recording their first win on the National stage.

Having won the regional tournament for the first time to earn their place at Nationals, the opportunity provided a memorable experience for the players as they competed against teams from across the country.

Coach Artza said:

"It was a fantastic experience for the whole team. After winning the regional tournament for the first time was an achievement in itself, but then getting the opportunity to compete in the National finals was really special.

The players were incredibly proud and excited to represent Lancashire and loved every minute of the day. Playing teams across the country was a great experience for them and something they will remember for a long time.

Regardless of the result at Nationals, seeing their confidence, teamwork and enjoyment throughout the day was what made us as coaches most proud. A huge thank you to everyone at Chance to Shine and Lancashire Cricket Foundation for giving the team such a memorable opportunity.”

With two national titles, a national final appearance, a semi-final place, an Inspiring Coach Award and a first ever national win for Bolton, it was a hugely positive few days for Lancashire's Chance to Shine Street teams.

More importantly,  the competition showcased the enthusiasm, teamwork, confidence and enjoyment of the players and coaches who represented their communities and the county on the national stage.