The rumours were true! Shepley Cricket Club have pulled off a sensational signing, securing the services of former England international spinner Monty Panesar.
The signing of the former England left-arm spinner represents a major coup for Shepley and is sure to generate plenty of excitement around the club and the Huddersfield Premier Cricket League ahead of the new season.
Born Mudhsuden Singh Panesar on 25 April 1982, Monty enjoyed a distinguished international career with England, making his Test debut against India in Nagpur in 2006 before making his One Day International debut the following year.
A left-arm orthodox spinner, Panesar became a familiar and popular figure in English cricket, representing his country in Test and one-day cricket. His county career included spells with Northamptonshire, Sussex and Essex, while he also represented the Highveld Lions in South Africa. His most recent club cricket was with Pelsall CC in Staffordshire.
However, Shepley's ambitions extend well beyond simply having a former England international in their ranks.
Monty is keen to become an active member of the club and will play an important role in developing its players, both senior and junior. He has committed to attending Thursday evening training sessions, where he will work with adult players as well as the junior section. The expectation is that Monty will be fully involved in club life, encouraging players and members alike to get involved.
Club Co Chairman Al and the committee are understandably delighted with the signing.
But how did it actually happen?
Al was approached by Kalyx Sport Management, who asked what the club was looking for and subsequently offered Monty's services. Initially, Al could hardly believe what he was hearing. After the initial shock, he took the proposal back to the committee, where discussions began in earnest.
Eventually, a deal was agreed, with the overall cost comparable to that of bringing in an overseas player.
It is certainly not every day that a local cricket club gets the opportunity to sign a former England international!
Shepley are also looking to give their youngsters opportunities at the highest level, with three juniors being promoted into the first XI this season. Having someone of Monty's experience and international pedigree around the club will provide an invaluable learning opportunity for the next generation.
There are also plans to make the most of Monty's profile off the field, with events such as a sportsman's dinner being considered, alongside a sponsorship package that will give local businesses the opportunity to become involved.
Al and everyone at Shepley are hugely excited about welcoming Monty to the club and the Huddersfield Premier Cricket League.
One thing is certain: there should be some big crowds at Shepley this season, and plenty of interest in seeing what the former England star can bring to Yorkshire club cricket!
