Cricket clubs confirm merger

In recent times and for varying reasons both Sheffield United CC and Rotherham Phoenix have struggled to compete in their respective leagues.

Their close proximity to each other – Phoenix are based at Brinsworth and United a stone's throw away on Bawtry Road – led to discussions about an amalgamation and the two will now unite and re-launch as Sheffield and Phoenix United.

A statement on behalf of the new club from Richard Tong and David Bingley said: “To list the problems we have faced is for another day, however both clubs felt something had to be done if they were to carry on their great traditions.

“Sheffield United were founded in 1854 whilst Phoenix came along in 1933 under their original name of Steel Peech and Tozer. Both clubs can boast some wonderful achievements, however not in recent times.

“With the clubs being near neighbours, albeit on different sides of the Sheffield-Rotherham border, it was decided to meet and share our thoughts. It quickly became clear that a merger was something that should be considered.

“After discussion and meetings with players and officials and League committees, the positive reaction far outweighed the negative.

“Therefore senior club officials decided when they met last week to give their blessing to a merger.”

It is expected that the united club will field three Saturday teams. The 1st string will play in the newly-formed ECB Yorkshire South Premier League at the Sheffield Hallam University  Sports Park at Bawtry Road and the seconds in South Yorkshire Senior League Division Two at Phoenix. The thirds will play in SYSL Division Five at Bawtry Road.

On Sundays they hope to field a side in the first division of the Barnsley League at Phoenix, subject to confirmation from league officials.