Maldon Cricket Club Chairman’s Report 2025

Alan Coker – Chairman

I would like to start by congratulating Alex Pyecroft and the 1st XI on a very successful season, finishing 4th in the league. In particular, it has been great to see younger members being given the opportunity to show their talents, while our senior players have once again led by example.

– Chris Harris topped the runs chart for the entire division with 987 runs, including two centuries.

– Danny Edwards finished 7th in the bowling list, taking 33 wickets.

– Jimmy Ainscough contributed an impressive 32 wicketkeeper dismissals.

A big thank you also goes to Bethan Bailey for her commitment as our regular scorer, providing invaluable support to the team.

The 2nd XI, after a difficult start losing their first six games, recovered strongly to finish in a very creditable 5th place. Martyn Coker led the way with 732 runs and 32 wickets, while Mason Folkes impressed behind the stumps with 14 dismissals.

The 3rd XI faced challenges with player availability, but it has been encouraging to see several of our youngsters making their senior cricket debuts.

I would like to Thank Jake and Sally Collins for accommodating Struan this summer, and welcoming him to your family.

Congratulations also to the Ladies’ team, who – in partnership with Rayleigh – achieved an excellent 2nd place finish.

Our Friday night Colts sessions continue to grow and enjoyed a very successful summer. Thanks to James Degiorgio and the Drapers family, along with all the coaches who gave their time: Simon Hull, Toby Pugh, Ben Gibbons, Al Johnson, Oli Hull, Jimmy Ainscough, and others – apologies if I’ve missed anyone’s name.

Unfortunately we have lost two members in the last year. Sadly we lost Norman Case and Sarah Harris. Our thoughts will always with them, and our condolences are with their families.

Grounds and Facilities:

At Drapers, Steve Harris and Dean Coppen completed their first full season caring for the square, with valuable assistance from Chris Punchard. This has been a transitional year with new equipment introduced.

At the Prom, the ground team have worked extremely well despite limited access. Thanks to Paul Gregory, Joe Figg and Andrew Barnes for their efforts.

Fundraising remains vital to the club.
My thanks to:

Chris Harris for organising the Golf Day and the Celebration Evening at the Lion on 3rd October. It was good to see New and Old members together on a wonderful occasion.

John Hill and Robbie Sach for their work on the successful Race Night.

Everyone involved with the 100 Club, which is proving to be an important fundraiser. If you are not yet a member, please consider joining – all profits go directly to the club.

Would like to also thank Toby Griffin of Yeo Digital Solutions Ltd for his work in developing the club website, and assisting with Frogbox. Still a lot more to do!

I would also like to thank the Management Committee for their hard work throughout the year, and Draper Sports Club for their ongoing support.

Looking ahead, we need more members in all areas of the club to help us grow. Key projects we are working towards include: