THE Greater Manchester Cricket League looks set to welcome up to 18 new teams for next season if the Pennine League folds.

A statement issued by the Lancashire Cricket Board last week confirmed discussions had taken place between the two leagues, and the GMCL would be happy to accept any clubs hoping to join for next season.

It is expected the Pennine League clubs will now vote on the proposal at a meeting on Tuesday.

And GMCL chairman Martin Kay has made it clear the league is ready and able to accommodate them.

“We are delighted to be welcoming clubs from the Pennine League and will endeavour to work with them and the LCB to make their transition as seamless as possible,” he said. “As the GMCL grows we are determined to maintain our focus upon quality and quantity of cricket in the North West and ensure the sustainability of all GMCL member clubs going forward.”

A total of seven Pennine League clubs – Glodwick, Greenfield, Moorside, Heyside, Monton and Weaste, Royton and Shaw – have already been accepted by the GMCL. A further six are moving to the Lancashire League, leaving Saddleworth, Crompton, Ashton, Austerlands, Friarmere, Hollinwood, Micklehurst, Oldham, Stayley, Uppermill and Werneth still in limbo.

The GMCL’s deadline for clubs to apply for next season is tomorrow, but that is expected to be extended to allow the Pennine League clubs more time.