Highfield Cricket Club crowned Wigan Big Bash T20 champions
Highfield Cricket Club are celebrating after being crowned 2026 Wigan Big Bash T20 champions.
After finishing top of the table, Highfield backed up their league form with victories over Norley Hall in the semi finals and Orrell Red Triangle in the final to lift the trophy and complete a memorable campaign.
Launched in 2024, the Wigan Big Bash has quickly established itself as one of the highlights of the local cricket calendar. The Twenty20 competition brings together six clubs from across Wigan and the surrounding area, with Highfield, Spring View, Leigh, Orrell Red Triangle, Norley Hall and Standish all taking part this year.
The competition has earned a reputation for producing entertaining cricket while bringing clubs, players and supporters together throughout the summer, with this year’s finals day hosted by Spring View Cricket Club as part of the club’s centenary celebrations.
Highfield booked their place in the final with an 84-run victory over Norley Hall before taking on Orrell Red Triangle for the title.
After posting 173, Highfield went on to bowl Orrell out for 106 to secure a 67-run victory. Ethan McLachlan starred in the final, scoring an unbeaten 44 before taking three wickets to earn the Man of the Match award.
The victorious Highfield Cricket Club squad. Front row, from left: Tom Cunliffe, Harry Moxham, Ryan Hargreaves, Jamie Darbyshire (captain), Oliver Jump and Lahiru Wellalage. Back row: Mike Simpson, Edwin Geary (wicketkeeper), Sam Rotherham, Ethan McLachlan, Thobile Hlatuka and Daniel Purcell.
Looking back on another successful competition, Highfield Marketing Director Kris Clarke praised everyone who had helped make the tournament such a success.
“What a sensational summer of local cricket it has been,” he said.
“Full credit must go to every club that took part, Spring View for their excellent hosting in their special centenary year, and Orrell, Norley Hall, Leigh and Standish for their competitive spirit and contribution to another highly successful Wigan Big Bash.
“The enthusiasm, sportsmanship and quality on show throughout the tournament have been a real credit to local cricket.
“Well done to all the players, officials, organisers and supporters who made it such a memorable competition.”
Tournament creator and organiser Gary Hayes commented, “The 2026 tournament was a high quality affair that has really showcased the strength of cricket in the local area. We are very lucky to have so many excellent clubs on our doorstep.
“Congratulations to Highfield on their deserved victory and commiserations to Orrell who lost nothing in defeat. I must also thank Spring View CC for being amazing hosts and providing such brilliant facilities and delivering a well organised day as they celebrate their centenary year, a proud club who always ensure that they provide a warm welcome.
“It would also be remiss to not thank Norley Hall for stepping in at short notice after Leigh’s withdrawal in order to ensure a full day of cricket for the local cricketing public, they acquitted themselves well.”