EDGWORTH'S players played a key part in the club's decision to join the Greater Manchester Cricket League.

The club voted to join the GMCL ahead of the newly-expanded Bolton League on Tuesday and today issued a statement outlining the factors which went into making the decision.

They make it clear that the players' wishes were a priority, with the future of their junior section also rating highly in their reasons behind the decision.

Edgworth have plans to improve the facilities at the Bolton Road club and say they believe joining the GMCL will help them achieve those aims.

They were also swayed by their new league's prospectus and aims.

It is clear, however, that the major reason behind their decision was the will of the players.

"Which league gives our best young players, who are increasing in number and standard year on year, the best chance of developing as players and of developing as players at Edgworth?" the statement says.

"And, perhaps most importantly, what was the preference of the players – where do they want to be playing their cricket?

"A very clear majority of players wanted to go into the GMCL.

"While many people’s hearts liked the idea of playing a part in what we all hope will be a strong Bolton League in 2016, and while there are many attractions, and some very good clubs in the Bolton League’s plans, the cricket committee last night decided, unanimously, to back the will of the players, and join the GMCL in 2016."

On how they hope their decision to join the GMCL will help with the future development of their facilities, the statement adds: "At Edgworth we are keen to continue to improve our facilities, with several projects in the pipeline, and we feel that the GMCL may help drive the club towards achieving those aims."

Read the full statement in a separate story on The Bolton News website.