It may only have been 48 hours since the last ball of the 2018 season was bowled but 1st XI skipper Tom Marsland has been busy recruiting and we are delighted to announce that we have secured the services of one of the top players in the North Wales Premier Division in the guise of Darren Leach.

Darren joins us from Connah's Quay having a fine pedigree in North Wales cricketing circles. Probing a little deeper so as to get to know him a little better, Darren has very kindly fielded some questions thrown at him...

So Darren, great to have you on board for the 2019 season at Upton Cricket Club, what attracted you to the club?
I have known a couple players current and ex players and all of them only have great things to say especially about the togetherness of the club

Is this your first experience of playing in Cheshire, and if so, what are you looking to gain from it?
I have had many years at Connahs Quay, however I had one season in the Cheshire County League for Chester Boughton Hall. Overall its a strong league and I enjoyed the challenge and I can't wait to get up and running. Another reason for a move back is I have a son who plays for Cheshire and he will be playing senior cricket in the next couple years and I look forward to playing with him.

Tell us a bit about your playing style…
I'm a right arm seamer and I've been asked to perform many roles over the years and I adapt accordingly - from taking the new ball to just restricting the run rate the best I can. My stock balls goes away however I have the other one to mix it up. There's no better feeling taking new ball and making good batsmen look foolish! I tend to bat down the order and can hit a long ball, so I get thrown up order if necessary prefer facing seamers

How’s your season gone at Connah's Quay?
Personally the season's gone well but also frustrating. I finished the season with the bowling award and everyone's favourite, 'players player'. I also chipped in with 300 league runs.

What’s been your proudest moment in cricket?
Winning trophies is always great - Liverpool Echo Knockout, North Wales Premier Division(inc. the bowling award that season) and I've played against the odd international player but my favourite moments are watching my lad every time.

Commenting on this addition, Tom said "Being able to bring a player in with the proven quality and experience that Darren has is a massive coup for the club. I've never played against Darren but I've seen him bowl on a number of occasions and I think his aggressive bowling will not only further strengthen our squad, but also suit the Upton wickets. Ross Dixon played on the same team as Darren with CBHCC and he strongly recommended we get him on board."

Welcome to UCC Darren, and great to have you on board!