Dear Cryptics,

Firstly, I would like to apologise for the delay in sending this “End of Season” message. I have been dealing with some personal matters that have taken precedence recently.

Reflecting on the season, I am incredibly encouraged by what we achieved this summer. While we may not have had the on-pitch success we all wanted, we did not have to withdraw from a single fixture due to poor availability, and the number of cricketers playing at least two games has increased.

On that note, I would like to thank and congratulate Alan Nichols and Tom Elstone for their standout contributions this year, playing 11 and 10 games respectively. Alan amassed 293 runs at an average of 48.83, with a top score of 102* (and chipped in with some wickets too!). Tom took 16 wickets at an average of 19.19, with best figures of 5-56. Harry Eastman and Junaid Aziz were our other season centurions, while Conor Nolan, Dom Scott, and Jamie Parker each took a five-wicket haul. Everyone’s contribution is highly valued!

The full 2026 season statistics can be found here: https://crypticscricket.club/averages/default.aspx

The increase in players committing to at least two games is vital. It significantly assists the Match Managers in raising a team, ensures the Club can honour its fixtures, and builds team spirit by allowing players to get to know one another. This is crucial for growing our player base, encouraging new members to join, and securing the future success of the Club. I would like to extend a huge thank you to the Match Managers for assembling their sides. It is never an easy task, and I am grateful to everyone who stepped up at late notice to ensure we took eleven players onto the pitch.

We enjoyed some wonderful days of cricket in 2026. The summer was largely warm and sunny (sometimes a little too hot!), with only one or two games interrupted by rain and none lost entirely to the weather. We did experience an unusual case of “bad light stopping play” at Barnes CC, just as the team was in a strong position to win (which Duckworth-Lewis later confirmed!).

Out of 23 arranged fixtures, our record was:

• Played: 19
• Won: 5 (Hurlingham, Oxford University Authentics, Sussex Martlets, Durham Pilgrims, Hampstead)
• Lost: 9 (Oval Dream Boys CC, Cambridge University Crusaders, MCC, Nomads, Earl of Carnarvon, Old Hurst Johnians, Ditching, HAC, Oxford Downs)
• Drew: 5 (Stragglers, St Edward’s Martyrs, Old Amplefordians, Hampshire Hogs, Barnes)
• Cancelled: 4 (Flashmen, Amersham, Yorks Gents, Free Foresters) – due to administrative/ground issues, which will be rectified for 2027.

Sadly, the losses outnumbered the wins, but the opposition held on for draws in four of those games, which easily could have tipped the balance in our favour. Every single match was entertaining. The full results can be viewed here: https://crypticscricket.club/fixtures/default.aspx

I am deeply grateful to those who supported the running of the Club this year:

• John Hamilton (Hon. Fixtures Secretary) for arranging our summer schedule.
• Nick Westhead (Hon. Treasurer) for managing our financial stability and ensuring all invoices were paid promptly.
• Chris Ward (Hon. Secretary) for his meticulous organising and record-keeping.
• Our Committee Members for their ongoing management of the Club.
• Keir Hopley & Anton Saverimuttu for coordinating umpires for every game.
• Jon Curtis and everyone else who scored for us.

While the playing season is complete, there is an administrative matter that requires the attention of all active Playing Members. We currently have a number of outstanding Annual Subscriptions. I will be sending a targeted email to the relevant members soon, and I kindly ask that this is resolved promptly. To avoid this hassle, we highly encourage setting up a Standing Order, which can be easily accomplished via online banking or bank's mobile app. The Annual Subscription for an elected Playing Member is currently £30 (waived for those in full-time education and certain others). While rising fixture costs mean this fee may need to be reviewed, the Committee and the Hon. Treasurer are working hard to avoid an increase if possible. Subscriptions are vital to covering seasonal shortfalls and supporting the Annual Dinner. To put it into perspective, umpires cost £60 and scorers £30 per game. Together, that accounts for over 80% of an afternoon match fees—before we even factor in the price of teas. There are other seasonal costs that need to be factored in, including cricket balls, ground hire, and insurance premiums. I hope this highlights just how important that £30 subscription is to the Club's financial health.

Looking ahead, I will shortly be sharing details for the AGM and the Annual Dinner (which, by popular demand, will be held before the start of the 2027 season—I look forward to a great turnout!). I will also hope to share details for a Christmas drinks evening and the announce the winners of the Club’s Second Century Draw.

Thank you once again for your support and participation throughout 2026. Look after yourselves over the winter months, stay fit, and I look forward to seeing you all next season, if not before!

Very best wishes,

Ed Montague
President