The Huddersfield Cricket League is proud to announce its confirmation as the 33rd ECB Accredited Premier League, effective from the 2025 season. This significant milestone marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our league and the clubs that form its backbone.
The journey officially began in Spring 2022 when clubs were briefed about the process of applying for Premier League accreditation. The overwhelmingly positive response from our members gave us the confidence to proceed. The accreditation would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of volunteers across the league, who played a pivotal role in helping clubs meet the high standards required, including achieving Clubmark certification—a key prerequisite for ECB recognition.
This achievement is a testament to the league’s commitment to fostering a thriving cricketing environment. Working closely with the ECB, this new status will help secure the league’s legacy and strengthen its foundations for future generations.
Special thanks go to committee members Jackie Brook and Mushtaq Hussain, who were instrumental in supporting clubs through the Clubmark process and ensuring our commitments to inclusivity and equity were met. Jackie’s relentless support for clubs navigating the complex Clubmark requirements, and Mushtaq’s dedication to promoting inclusivity, were vital contributions to the league’s success.
The campaign for Premier League status was driven by senior committee members Trevor Atkinson, Norman Clee, and Mark Binns, who expertly managed the application process and maintained strong communication with the ECB throughout.
The Yorkshire Cricket Board’s West Yorkshire representatives also proved to be crucial as a point of contact to turn to for advice. Steve Archer (Head of Regions) and Steve Coulthard (Club & Community Development Manager) provided invaluable advice, particularly in the early stages to pave the way with the ECB. The league extends their deepest gratitude to them, and also Alan Birkinshaw, whose guidance and advice as a member of the YCB were invaluable in helping us meet the ECB’s stringent standards.
Paul Bedford, the ECB’s League & Counties National Manager, commended the league's efforts when delivering the good news: "It’s been a brilliant effort on your part; by other members of the league committee; YCB and member clubs to reach the exacting standards required. Well done to all involved!"
This achievement heralds a promising new era for the Huddersfield Cricket League, and we look forward to building on this success as one of the ECB’s Premier Leagues.
