ONE of the region’s most decorated cricketers has been speaking on a standout career to date.

Duncan Midgley, who has seven league titles and almost 7,500 runs to his name, currently plays for North Wales Cricket League Premier Division side St Asaph. But the likelihood of adding to these impressive totals now appears bleak due to the ongoing social distancing measures due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The talented batsman has enjoyed prolific spells at Llanrwst, Llandudno, Bangor and Mochdre before moving to the Saints. He has an impressive average of 42.16 from 195 innings throughout his career, which includes ten knocks of more than a century and 53 half centuries.

Midgley attribute much of his success to father Colin, who put him on the right path early on.

He said: “It all started with my dad. He put countless hours in throwing balls at me in the garden. I didn’t really have any other coaching as such, so I have to thank him for making me the player I am.

“I always play to win and was happy to have a chat on the field, although I have probably quietened down with age.”

The former Glamorgan U17 squad member has also represented British Police Cricket, which Midgley added were “two fantastic experiences”.

Midgley has played for multiple teams across the region, which is something he might not do if given the opportunity to do it all again.

“I look back and wish in the nicest way possible I didn’t move as much as I did,” he added.

“Personal circumstances meant for a couple of moves which didn’t work out. But I hold no regrets, and I’ll be advising my two boys to both play cricket and be settled at one club.

“I have nothing but respect for the clubs I played for and represented. I really do thank them for making me and my family welcome during my times there.

“Llandudno was by far the peak of my career and I loved it. It was a special time and always be in my heart. I’ll always be grateful to Steve Smith for signing me and the club for the number of enjoyable and successful seasons.

“I’m a St Asaph lad and a large majority of my mates either play or support the Saints, so I feel I’m back where I belong.

“It’s been a busy few years of late with family life which meant cricket had to take a back seat as such, but last year really enjoyed my cricket again and playing with a great bunch of lads.

“Not a great season for the club as we should have finished higher, but it was a good season for me personally averaging over 90.”

Midgley has set his sights on winning a title with St Asaph in the next couple of seasons, which “would conclude an enjoyable and successful career” for the player.

The batsman listed Brymbo and Menai Bridge as his toughest domestic opponents during his time in the game, with Midgley’s favourite grounds being St Asaph and Pontblyddyn.

He said: “The current coronavirus situation has made shown me how much I enjoy cricket and how much I am currently missing it. I just hope everyone stays safe and we get cricket back in North Wales soon.”

Midgley’s best North Wales XI (no professionals): Steve Smith, Will Evans, Jordan Kane, Aled Williams, Will Ryan, Trevor Williams, Matty Humphries, Robbie Marshall, Dave North, Jason Foulkes, Jack Rimmington.