Manchester Storm this week announced their first pre-season matches following their return, 18 years after the original team closed due to financial problems.

Jos Buttler is coming of age in England’s Test side, and the mould-breaking gloveman insists there is still plenty more for him to offer in time for this summer’s Ashes with arch-rivals Australia.

Three-time northern champions Manchester Futsal Club are one of the leading lights in the national indoor five-a-side version of football both on and off the court.

A Bolton wrestler has described the ‘shocking’ moment he received a string of donations from local supporters who aimed to fund his sporting dream.

Although Neil Lennon has been largely happy with his side’s performances this season he has acknowledged that changes are needed if Bolton Wanderers are to fulfil their potential next season.

New research has revealed swimmers make the best lovers – and guess what Manchester’s favourite sport is? That’s right, swimming.

Bolton Wanderers conceded in stoppage time for the seventh time since late January to throw away a hard-fought point against second-placed Norwich on Saturday as they gear up to face Charlton on Tuesday.

After Bolton’s superb 3-0 win in Cardiff on Easter Monday, Lennon believes the Norwich game will be a test of their aspirations to find themselves competing at the top next year.

Bolton manager Neil Lennon brought Iceland’s record goalscorer back to Bolton almost 15 years after he had left the club for Chelsea, with the 36-year-old signing a six-month deal in December and since notching up six goals in 20 appearances.

The former England international and one-day coach believes his squad are in a good place as they look to bounce back from relegation on the final day of last season.

Bury-born Kate Cross is looking to continue her progress in another Ashes summer that looks set to be the biggest one in women’s cricket history after Sky Sports agreed to increase its coverage.