Lancashire Lions VISC

Lancashire Lions – Player of the Month (June) 🦁🏏

We are proud to announce Arslan Sabir as our Player of the Month for June 🎉

Arslan has shown outstanding dedication and commitment throughout the month. He is always ready to support the team, especially when assisting our blind players with running and on-field help whenever needed 🤝

He also made a strong impact in matches, taking crucial wickets 🎯 and contributing with important catches and run outs for the Lancashire Lions.

Congratulations, Arslan 👏 and thank you for your continued contribution to the club.

Lancashire Lions Development Side Hold Durham to a Draw

The Lancashire Lions Development side secured a hard-fought draw against Durham Viper Jets in their latest development league fixture.

Lancashire were put in to bat first after captain Shoaib lost the toss. Openers Nathan and Kashif put on 34 runs before Kashif was bowled.

Nathan and Zaheer then added an 80-run partnership. Zaheer, a totally blind player, scored 40 off 36 balls, including two boundaries (counted as fours, doubling to eight runs each), before being bowled.

Nathan went on to score 50 off 37 balls before retiring, marking his second half-century of the season. Sheraz and Arslan finished the innings strongly, with Arslan scoring 38 not out and Sheraz 24 not out, taking Lancashire to 207 for 2 in 23 overs.

Durham started quickly in reply, but Zaza was caught by Arslan off Nathan, who then bowled Raheel in the same over to leave Durham 38 for 2 after three overs.

James retired on 53 off 34 balls, hitting nine boundaries. Jack was then caught by Nathan at fine leg off Sheraz. Harry later scored 50 at just over a run a ball, including six boundaries.

Nadeem produced two run-outs to remove Khaleel and Emma. In the final over, Lewis defended 16 runs to secure the draw, with Durham finishing on 202 for 5 from 25 overs.

Lancashire remain top of the Northern Development League and face second-placed Bradford this Sunday at Great Horton Church Cricket Club.

Another hot and sunny day, combined with an earlier start to accommodate the evening’s sport from the USA, saw Lions travel to Metro in high spirits. Sheraz’s familiar call of “tails never fails” once again didn’t go to plan, as Lions lost the toss and Metro elected to bowl first.

Shahzaib set the tone immediately, taking 17 runs from Javid’s opening over, capitalising on a no-ball from Mo to get going. His entertaining knock came to an end when Mike held a well-judged juggling catch at point. Metro responded well to slow the scoring, allowing just 36 more runs before the drinks break. Arslan became the second wicket to fall, holing out to Mike off Javid.

Ahmed then produced an excellent spell, including a maiden over, as Metro built pressure with 14 dot balls. After the break, Mike bowled Shoaib to leave Lions needing a rebuild, and Tahseen stepped up in style.

From that point, Tahseen dominated. In a superb counter-attacking innings, he struck three sixes and eight fours, contributing 100 of the 177 runs scored after drinks. Captain Sheraz supported well before falling lbw to Mike. Shah added a late flourish with a quickfire 42 from 20 balls, helping Lions declare on an imposing 243-5 from 33 overs.

Metro’s chase began positively through Thomas and Mo, though early discipline from Shahzaib and Tahseen kept scoring tight. Tahseen followed up his batting heroics with outstanding bowling figures of 2 for 5. Momentum shifted briefly after a no-ball from Shah, with Thomas responding with three consecutive boundaries. At the 10-over mark, Metro were 74 and in the contest.

The opening pair built an excellent partnership of 132, giving Metro real hope. However, the breakthrough came when Thomas, after reaching a fine half-century, was caught at mid-off by Will Pammenter in a pivotal moment. Tahseen struck again soon after, dismissing Mo for 67, and the game swung decisively back to Lions.

With victory unlikely, Metro focused on securing batting points. Ahmed and Mike rotated well before Ahmed was caught by Arslan. At 169-3, Hardik and Nick guided Metro past 200 with sensible batting. Nick finished strongly, ending unbeaten on 37.

Lions’ convincing performance keeps them top of the National League after four matches, maintaining an unbeaten start to the season and reinforcing their position at the summit.

🦁 Matchday! 🏏

The Lancashire Lions travel to London Metro this Saturday in the BCEW National League Division One, aiming to strengthen their grip on top spot.

Currently sitting at the top of the table on 45 points, with just three league games remaining, every point is vital as the Lions push towards the league title.

📍 Highgate Woods, London
🗓️ Saturday 11th July

Wishing the squad the very best of luck for the trip to London. Let’s keep the momentum going and bring home another big result!

Come on, Lions! 🦁💙❤️

🌥️ Match Report | Metro Hold Lancashire to a Draw

On a cool, overcast day with the odd spot of rain, the Lancashire Lions produced an excellent all-round performance, only to see Metro dig in and bat for the draw in a frustratingly defensive display.

After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, metro made the perfect start. Shahzaib came out attacking with 11 from the opening two overs, but Mo struck in the third to bowl him. Rory then removed Shoaib for a duck, leaving metro in a commanding position at 24-2.

With two early wickets falling, Arslan and captain Sheraz steadied the ship, absorbing the pressure and rebuilding the innings with a composed partnership. However, just as they looked set to take control, Sheraz was brilliantly run out before Alex Ditchburn took a superb catch to dismiss Arslan and give Rory his second wicket. At 54-4, lions were back under immense pressure.

Tahseen then produced a superb counter-attacking innings. His fluent 84, scored at better than a run a ball, rescued the innings as he guided the lower order towards a competitive total. Shah also played an important supporting role with a valuable 30, helping to keep the scoreboard moving and maintaining a healthy run rate throughout the innings. Alex Ditchburn claimed his second excellent catch to end Tahseen’s knock, handing Javid his third wicket. Javid also removed Shah and trapped Amjad lbw to finish with impressive figures of 3-35 from seven overs.

The Lions declared after 32 overs, setting Metro 225 to win from 28 overs.

Metro spoke positively at tea about chasing the target, but those intentions quickly disappeared. Nick was trapped lbw by Arslan with the score on just 9, and the Lions seized control.

Shoaib’s first over brought two wickets as Sam was run out by Arslan before Alex, after hitting a boundary from his second ball, chopped on two deliveries later. Arslan then struck twice more, catching Thomas and bowling Rob, reducing Metro to 65-5. He finished with outstanding figures of 3-12 from five overs.

Although Mo played sensibly, punishing the occasional loose delivery, and added 40 with Hanza, Metro’s focus had clearly shifted to survival rather than victory. Shah had Javid caught behind by Tahseen before Sheraz bowled Shiv, but by the time Rory arrived there were only three overs remaining. Metro safely batted them out to secure the draw.

The Lions will take plenty of positives from a disciplined bowling display, sharp fielding, and an enterprising declaration. On another day, they would have deserved all 20 points. They’ll have the chance to go one better when the sides meet again at Highgate this Saturday 11th July

🦁 Well played, Lions!

🏏 MATCH DAY IS HERE! 🦁

The Lancashire Lions V.I.S.C. are back in action as they host London Metro in the BCEW National League Division One.

📅 Saturday 4th July
🕐 Start: 1:00 PM
📍 Cheetham Hill Sports Club, Manchester

Come along and support some fantastic blind cricket, cheer on the Lancashire Lions, and experience the excitement of inclusive sport at its best.

Everyone is welcome—bring your family and friends and help create a great atmosphere!

Support • Encourage • Enjoy

🏏⚾ Lancashire Lions VISC Blind Cricket & Blind Baseball Training – Wednesday, 1 July 2026 ⚾🏏

Another fantastic evening of training with the Lancashire Lions VISC. It was great to see everyone working hard, encouraging one another, and enjoying the opportunity to develop their skills in both blind cricket and blind baseball.

During the cricket session, Zain focused on improving his batting. He worked on his stance, listening carefully for the sound of the ball, timing his shots, and building confidence at the crease. With each delivery, he showed determination, concentration, and a positive attitude to learning. His batting improved throughout the session, and it was great to see him playing several well-timed shots.

Everyone also took part in blind baseball training, where players worked on batting, throwing, catching, fielding, running between bases, communication, and teamwork. The drills helped improve reactions, coordination, and confidence while making sure everyone had the chance to develop their skills in a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment.

The session finished with practice game situations, giving everyone the opportunity to put their cricket and baseball skills into action. The effort, enthusiasm, and teamwork shown by all the players made it another successful evening of training.

A huge thank you to all the coaches, volunteers, and teammates for their continued support, patience, and encouragement. Your dedication helps every player improve their skills, build confidence, and enjoy being part of the Lancashire Lions VISC family.

Looking forward to next week’s training and continuing to learn, improve, and have fun together.

🦁 LIONS | JULY 2026 SPORTING ACTIVITIES CALENDAR 🦁

A packed month of cricket, baseball, training, competitions, and social activities awaits!
📅 Save this calendar and come along to support the Lancashire Lions throughout July.

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🗓️ Wednesday 1 July

🏏⚾ Cricket & Baseball Training
🏏 Cricket: 🕔 5:00 pm – 🕡 6:30 pm
⚾ Baseball: 🕡 6:30 pm – 🕢 7:30 pm

📍 Cheetham Hill Cricket Club, 26 Catherine Road, Manchester, M8 4HF

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🗓️ Thursday 2 July

🎳 Tenpin Bowling
📍 Unit 3, Sandbrook Park, Sandbrook Way, Rochdale, OL11 1RY
🕡 6:30 pm

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🗓️ Saturday 4 July

🏏 BCEW National League Division 1
Lancashire Lions 🆚 London Metro
📍 Cheetham Hill Cricket Club, 26 Catherine Road, Manchester, M8 4HF

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🗓️ Sunday 5 July

⚾ UK Blind Baseball Association National Cup
Our Lions players will be proudly representing the club in the UK Blind Baseball Association National Cup Tournament.

📍 Flixton Girls’ School, Flixton Road, Manchester, M41 5DR
🕛 12:00 pm

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🗓️ Wednesday 8 July

🏏 Cricket Training
📍 Cheetham Hill Cricket Club, 26 Catherine Road, Manchester, M8 4HF
🕔 5:00 pm – 🕖 7:00 pm

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🗓️ Friday 10 July

🚌 Travel Day
Travelling to London ahead of Saturday’s National League fixture.

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🗓️ Saturday 11 July

🏏 BCEW National League Division 1 (Away)
London Metro 🆚 Lancashire Lions

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🗓️ Sunday 12 July

🏏 BCEW Development League
Durham VICC 🆚 Lancashire Lions

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🗓️ Wednesday 15 July

🏏⚾ Cricket & Baseball Training
🏏 Cricket: 🕔 5:00 pm – 🕡 6:30 pm
⚾ Baseball: 🕡 6:30 pm – 🕢 7:30 pm

📍 Cheetham Hill Cricket Club, 26 Catherine Road, Manchester, M8 4HF

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🗓️ Thursday 16 July

🎳 Tenpin Bowling
📍 Unit 3, Sandbrook Park, Sandbrook Way, Rochdale, OL11 1RY
🕡 6:30 pm

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🗓️ Sunday 19 July

🏏 BCEW Development League (Away)
Bradford & District 🆚 Lancashire Lions

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🗓️ Wednesday 22 July

🏏 Cricket Training
📍 Cheetham Hill Cricket Club, 26 Catherine Road, Manchester, M8 4HF
🕔 5:00 pm – 🕖 7:00 pm

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🗓️ Thursday 23 July

🎳 Tenpin Bowling
📍 Unit 3, Sandbrook Park, Sandbrook Way, Rochdale, OL11 1RY
🕡 6:30 pm

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🗓️ Sunday 26 July

🏓 Showdown Training
📍 Guidance Hub, 289 Waterloo Road, Manchester, M8 9AB
🕧 12:30 pm – 🕞 3:30 pm

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🗓️ Wednesday 29 July

🏏⚾ Cricket & Baseball Training
🏏 Cricket: 🕔 5:00 pm – 🕡 6:30 pm
⚾ Baseball: 🕡 6:30 pm – 🕢 7:30 pm

📍 Cheetham Hill Cricket Club, 26 Catherine Road, Manchester, M8 4HF

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💛🖤 Come and support the Lancashire Lions throughout July!

Train hard • Compete with pride • Support one another • Inspire through sport

🏏 MATCH DAY – SEMI FINAL! 🏏

The Lancashire Lions V.I.S.C. are on the road this Sunday as we take on Bradford & District in the BCEW North Development Twenty20 Cup Semi Final.

📅 Sunday 28th June 2026
🕐 Start Time: 1:00 PM
📍 Great Horton Church Cricket Club
108A Allerton Road, Bradford, BD8 0AZ

A place in the final is up for grabs, and the Lions are ready for the challenge! 🦁💪

If you’re in the area, come along and get behind the team. Your support makes all the difference!

💛🖤 Good luck, Lancashire Lions! Let’s bring home the win!

Monday 22nd June – Manchester & Greater Manchester VI Sports Day

What a fantastic day at this year’s Manchester & Greater Manchester VI Sports Day, held at Trafford Athletic Track, Longford Park, Stretford, Manchester. This annual event attracted record-breaking numbers, with over 100 participants attending and taking part in a wide range of sports throughout the day.

The Lancashire Lions were once again proud to be a regular feature of this fantastic event, delivering both Blind Cricket and Goalball. Our cricket sessions proved extremely popular, while our Goalball activities provided a clear pathway into further opportunities through Goalball UK sessions, with activities continuing throughout both the morning and afternoon.

A huge thank you goes to our coaches Ben Tanner, Saif Rehman, Nathan Jack, Shoaib Nazir, Sheraz Chohan and Heather Norton for their outstanding support and delivery of both Cricket and Goalball sessions. Their dedication helped make the day a huge success and continues to strengthen opportunities for visually impaired sport across Manchester and Greater Manchester.

The future looks incredibly promising for visually impaired sport in the region, with exciting pathways now developing for both Lancashire Lions Cricket and Goalball. We would also like to extend a special thank you and congratulations to Dan Stroker, who has organised this event for many years. The event continues to grow and improve year after year, and this year’s record attendance is a testament to all of his hard work and commitment.

Despite the hot weather, it was incredibly rewarding to see so many smiles on participants’ faces and hear the overwhelmingly positive feedback received throughout the day.

One quote that particularly stood out came from Finley McIntyre, aged 13, who has no sight. After taking part in the cricket session, Finley said:

“Hitting the ball while playing cricket has made me feel so proud and excited to get involved more because I don’t often get these opportunities. I’ve really enjoyed having this chance and I want to play more blind sports with the Lions.”

Hearing comments like this reminds us why these events are so important and why creating opportunities for young people to access sport matters so much.

The day also provided a fantastic opportunity to network with schools, organisations, and partners who share the same vision of increasing opportunities for visually impaired people through sport. By working together, we can continue to create more pathways and opportunities for participants of all ages and abilities.

We look forward to building on the success of this year’s event and opening our doors to young and emerging talent who may one day represent the Lancashire Lions. The future is bright, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.