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The End of an Era: Ben Heap to Step Down as Captain

Ben Heap leading out the team at Old Trafford in the 2017 Lancashire Cup Final
Ben leading out the team at Old Trafford in the 2017 Lancashire Cup Final

Lowerhouse Cricket Club captain Ben Heap has informed the playing group that the 2026 season will be his final year as First Eleven captain.

Ben has led the side with distinction, taking charge of one of Lancashire’s most historic and successful cricket clubs.

During his tenure, he has guided a talented squad while maintaining the standards, traditions and ambitions associated with Lowerhouse Cricket Club.

Captaincy at Lowerhouse carries responsibility beyond the field, representing the club, its members, supporters and past generations. Ben has embraced that role and played a key part in shaping the team.

Since taking over as captain in 2017, Heap has enjoyed a hugely successful spell at the helm, leading Lowerhouse Cricket Club to three Worsley Cup victories from four final appearances, the Lancashire League title in 2025, the Holland Cup in 2018 and the Colne Trophy in 2022, 2025 and 2026, the latter shared jointly.

Across his record 201 Lancashire League appearances as captain, Heap has scored 5,456 runs at an average of 31.5, including five centuries and 34 fifties.

His overall Lancashire League record now stands at 9,509 runs at 26.6, while his Worsley Cup tally is an amateur-record 1,604 runs at an average of 35.6.

The decision has been shared with the players, with Ben confirming that while this will be his final season as captain, his commitment to the club remains unchanged.

Everyone at Lowerhouse Cricket Club thanks Ben for his leadership and contribution to the role.

There is still plenty of cricket to be played this season, and the focus now turns to finishing strongly and ensuring Ben receives the send-off his captaincy deserves.

Thank you, Ben. 💙💛

#UTH

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