Fresh challenge is paying off for Morris as he sets his sights on Trophy success

MATTHEW Morris says a winter move has reignited his cricket fires - and hopes that Staffordshire will reap the rewards.

- Chris Travers

The 26-year-old swapped life with Westhoughton in the Greater Manchester League to link up with Burslem in the North Staffs and South Cheshire League.

Morris was the first signing announced by Burslem following last year's miserable season in Premier A, which saw them relegated after failing to win a game.

And while recruiting Morris was a statement of intent from the Festival Heights club, it also proved to be a breath of fresh air for the player himself.

"Moving to Burslem has really helped me," said Morris. "The club and the environment benefits me. It's a weight off my shoulders and I'm enjoying my Saturday cricket again.

"That's down to the hierarchy - Johnno (Paul Johnson, chairman) and Liam (Pattison, captain). I'm really enjoying it.

"I think everything has its time and it was right to part with Westhoughton. We didn't have a fall out or anything and we were open and honest with each other.

"It was my club for seven years and we won a lot of trophies, but it was a good opportunity for me to come to Burslem and have a fresh challenge.

"We've made a good start as well. We've won both league matches so far and chased more than 200 on both occasions."

Morris, who has been a fixture in the Staffordshire side since 2019, says the move has also helped to forge stronger links with the county.

NCCA counties are allowed to field three 'outsiders' in their team - players who were either not born or play their club cricket in the county they represent.

He says that playing in the North Staffs and South Cheshire League can also ensure that he remains an integral part of the Staffs set-up moving forward.

"You always think you are one of three, along with Liam Hurt and Tom Brett, when you are selected for Staffs," admitted Morris.