DOWNEND Cricket Club experienced the sport’s highs and lows over a memorable season.
It was a challenging and ultimately unsuccessful campaign for Downend’s 1st XI, who were relegated from the West of England Premier Cricket League Premier One division (WEPL1) after recording four wins and 12 defeats.
One of the standout moments of the season came at home against Bath, where Downend produced a dominant display to chase down 220 for the loss of just three wickets. The match belonged to Masoor Khan, who delivered a superb all-round performance, taking five wickets and scoring a brilliant unbeaten century.
After a season at the highest level of club cricket in the region, preparation for a return to WEPL 2 is already underway. The team will look to regroup, with the aim of securing promotion back to WEPL 1 next year.
Downend’s 2nd XI enjoyed a fantastic campaign, finishing runners-up in the Bristol & District Senior Division and securing a well-deserved promotion to WEPL 3.
The side produced a string of dominant performances across the season, showcasing both depth and quality within the club.
A highlight was the penultimate fixture of the season, where a comprehensive six-wicket victory over Coalpit Heath sealed promotion.
The club was also proud to see two of its players selected to represent the Bristol & District Representative Side in a fixture against the Gloucester County League: further recognition of the talent on display throughout the year.
There were loads of positives for the 3rd XI this season, with the young players coming through the Downend youth set up. Harrison Orr cemented a place opening the bowling and earned a 2nds call-up, with Rehan Nawaz also getting selected and bowling well in his first season in senior cricket. Ryan Collins also impressed with the bat.
While deeply disappointed not to get promoted again despite only losing two games, the 3rds will go again next season and battle every game.
The club’s Juniors had a really successful year, both in terms of results on the pitch and the numbers of kids taking part in sessions.
Starting with our All Stars, where more than 90 five to eight year olds took part on a Friday night, through to our five youth age-group teams, it was great to see so many enjoying their cricket.
Highlights include running out first ever girls’ sessions, something that we hope to develop and grow next year, and our under-15s, who won their league and narrowly missed out on doing the cup double.
A massive thanks has to go to all the coaches, parents and volunteers for their help and enthusiasm.
Anyone interested in getting their child involved should get in touch with the club by emailing downendcricketmembership@gmail.com.
Downend Ladies enjoyed a season to remember, being crowned Softball Division 2 South Champions in their debut competitive campaign. Formed just 18 months ago, the team won eight of their nine matches.
An excellent run in the Division 1 100 Ball Softball County Cup ended in a thrilling final against Division 1 champions, Keynsham.
After losing the toss, Downend were put in to bat and rose to the challenge, setting an impressive target of 155.
Georgie Bale, with 45 not out from 49 balls and Amelia Humphrey with 81 not out (41 balls) combined for a superb 148-run partnership, giving Downend momentum.
Despite a spirited effort in the field, Keynsham chased down the target with just four balls to spare, handing Downend a narrow defeat but underlining the high quality of the contest.
With promotion to Division 1 confirmed, Downend Ladies are looking forward to testing themselves against stronger opposition next season. They will take confidence from their cup performances, which proved they can compete with more experienced sides.
The club will also be entering a second team in Division 2, ensuring plenty of opportunities for players of all abilities to get involved.
Miles Davis