A PROUD of Barnsley-nominated cricket club has escaped potential closure and gone on to win a South Yorkshire-wide competition.

Last year the Chronicle reported on the successes of Green Moor under-15 girls’ side, which was formed by dedicated players who helped reshape the previously mixed-gender team after it faced a series of struggles.

Following success in the West Yorkshire league, the team were hungry to carry on competing, so began playing indoor softball as a way of keeping the girls practising through the winter months.

While the principles of the two sports may be different, the youngsters took to the indoor game and won every match in the South Yorkshire Women’s and Girls’ Indoor Softball League, division four.

Donna Rhodes, club treasurer, told the Chronicle: “The win is a testament to the girls’ determination and their incredible team spirit.

“New members have been welcomed and have integrated seamlessly into the existing team - our overriding ethos is to enjoy the game of cricket and make sure everyone is included, winning is a bonus.”

The team will go on to play hardball cricket again this year and are launching new inclusive cricket sessions in May.

“This is an exciting new project for the club, which will be one of only a handful of clubs in South Yorkshire to offer this opportunity,” Donna added.

“It will offer children with disabilities the opportunity to learn some cricket skills in a safe, nurturing environment - the focus will be on fun.

“It will be open to ages ten to 18, of all abilities and levels of need.”