New CI League loses a giant

THE new NatWest Channel Islands Cricket League has lost a major force before a ball is bowled.

Sporting Club Francais, the most powerful side in Jersey for two decades, has withdrawn its first team from the top echelon.

The side, for so long spearheaded by the Carlyon brothers and Jersey captain Matt Hague, cite a shortage of players.

Some have opted to transfer while others informed the club they did not wish to play or to do so only on an irregular basis.

'It's a sad end to a hugely successful side who have grown up and matured together,' said secretary Ron Halliwell.

The withdrawal is likely to lead to a total re-write of the new CI fixtures.