As we look ahead to the 2026 season, it’s important to reflect on the journey we travelled together last year. 2025 was a challenging season, but also a positive and encouraging one in many ways.

The year began in difficult circumstances. The player pool looked thin, and the road ahead was clearly going to be challenging. The early weeks were chaotic, and the club had to work hard simply to field a side. However, Simon Ellis stepped up at short notice, taking on the captaincy and doing an excellent job ensuring a competitive side took the field every Saturday.

Across the season, 25 players represented the Saturday XI, showing both the strain on availability and the depth of commitment from everyone who pulled on a Spye shirt. We also welcomed several strong and talented new players — Chandana Kariyapperumage, Ian Montague, Rory and Milo Unwin, and Frazer Morgan, whose skills and spirit made a real difference.

Results didn’t always fall our way, and relegation was ultimately confirmed — even though we didn’t finish bottom. Despite that frustration, the club remains positive, united, and forward looking. As was rightly said, “we’ve generally played close, competitive cricket… and crucially — we’ve enjoyed it.”

The President’s Game and Billy Penman fixture were played in excellent spirit, showcasing the camaraderie that defines our club. On Sunday, 1st June, the standout highlight of the year was the Lionel Perrett Memorial Game, where we celebrated club legend Lionel with a commemorative match that brought 120 people to the ground — a powerful reminder of the deep community roots that sustain us. The current day Spye Park XI entertained the 2010 Wiltshire Division 1 winning side — Bowater, Bramwell, Church, Hulse, Hues, Taylor, Doel and the Beals — returned to the club where they made their cricketing names. On the same day, we proudly unveiled the Spye Park Cricket Club Honours Board, a lasting tribute to the captains, chairmen, secretaries and treasurers who have shaped our club since 1882.

As we stand on the edge of a new season, the launch of our Second XI is more than just adding another team — it’s a statement of intent. It signals that Spye Park is here to stay, determined to grow, and committed to building a thriving future. This first year will be tough, but bold steps rarely come with guarantees. What they do come with is opportunity — to bring new players into the fold, to give more people meaningful cricket, and to rebuild the depth and strength that once defined Spye Park. If we can get through this first season, even with the inevitable bumps along the way, we’ll have laid the foundations for a club that continues to grow, compete, and inspire for years to come.

2025 proved that when challenges arise, Spye Park Cricket Club pulls together. New faces joined, old friendships strengthened, and the club rediscovered its energy and momentum. As we enter the 144th year of cricket at Spye Park, we do so with optimism and determination.

We continue to welcome new players of all ages and abilities. If you know someone who might enjoy being part of this historic club, please encourage them to get involved. The more people who experience Spye Park, the stronger our future becomes.

Thank you to everyone who plays, supports, volunteers, scores, umpires, makes teas, cuts grass, or simply stands on the boundary and cheers. You are the heartbeat of this club.

Here’s to a positive, united, and enjoyable 2026 season.

Warmest regards,
Jon Bathe
Chairman, Spye Park Cricket Club