Having signed for Leek Cricket Club from Burslem Cricket Club in October last year, Zen has gone onto help Leek 1st XI retain their Premier League status for another year and win the Talbot Cup for the first time since 2017.

Speaking to Club Captain Alex Mellor, he said “I am delighted to have Zen playing for Leek next season. It was a pleasure to work alongside him last year and I’m looking forward to doing it all again. I believe we are building on some great foundations after winning the Talbot Cup and hopefully we can go for more success next year.”

Head of Cricket, Rob Haydon is also excited to have Zen re-sign with Leek Cricket Club, saying “it’s fantastic news to sign Zen after an excellent first season with us. He is a match winner with bat and ball as well as being a brilliant fielder. He played a key role in last season’s Talbot Cup success when he earned the Man of the Match award. He has shown he is capable of match winning innings and took nearly 50 wickets in all competitions showing the value of his ability to turn the ball both ways. He’s been brilliant with us, and we look forward to next season with him.”

In the 2023 season, Zen played 26 games for the 1st XI across League and Cup competitions, scoring over 700 runs and taking 48 wickets, including three 50s, one 100, and four 5 wicket hauls. His best run total was 137 not out vs Cheadle, and 5 for 18 vs 2023 Champions Hem Heath.

“I’m delighted to have resigned at Leek CC. After a challenging season, we’re able to hold our heads high and come away with a cup and retain premier league status. It says a lot about the club and this group of players, hopefully we can continue to build on these successes going into next season”. – Zen Malik

We are excited to have Zen for another season and look forward to seeing what he can achieve for Leek Cricket Club in 2024.