Victory sees Hopton crowned champions

It is the first piece of major silverware Hopton have lifted and the club are now planning for life in the top flight.

Hopton can look forward to games against Premier champions Townville, Methley and Wrenthorpe, together with a cracking Mirfield derby against Parish Cavaliers.

Paul Moorhouse took over as chairman around three years ago and a new committee at Woodbottom has brought a turn in fortunes.

Moorhouse said: “We brought Mick Carroll through as a junior before he signed for Wakefield St Michaels and had a successful season in the Premier Division.

“He came back to help us win promotion from Division Two and has been key in us getting to the Premier.

“Richard Myers also joined and has brought with him a band of supportrers, who help in the tea room and scoring.”

Hopton have also unearthed a gem of an overseas player in 18-year-old Bangladeshi-born Australian Tahmidul Islam.

Moorhouse explained: “Tahmidul was 17 when he came to us and celebrated his 18th birthday here. He is on the Michael Clarke Scholarship back in Aus and plays very correctly.

“He stands a good chance of winning the league junior batting, bowling and all-rounder prizes and it would be great if we could bring him back next season.”

Hopton clinched the title last week and were presentated with the Division One trophy at Methley.

Chris Scott (62) and Stephen Bland (31) led the way in Hopton’s 172 all out, before Methley A reached 135-7 in reply with Myers claiming 3-16 from 15 overs.