SANDFORD Cricket Club celebrated its 75th anniversary with its annual Dinner and Awards evening at Fingle Glen Golf Club, with 66 guests attending.

The evening was excellently compered by Brian Leach who had also helped arrange the evening in conjunction with Louise James and First XI Captain Jackson Thompson.

On behalf of everyone who attended, thank you for a very enjoyable evening. Also many thanks to the management at Fingle Glen for their part in ensuring the evening ran as planned, and for the superb two course meal.

AWARDS

First XI Player of the Year – Lawrence Walker

Lawrence had an outstanding season for Sandford in 2024, scoring a total of 623 runs from 17 innings at an average of 44.50 with a highest score of 136 not out, as well as three other half centuries. His early/middle order consistent batting performances ensured they did not go unnoticed by the County selectors, and he subsequently became a regular in the Devon County team Championship and One Day teams, where he also did well, including another big century.

Second XI Player of the Year – Jon James

Although the veteran of the side, Jon at last showed his true worth for Sandford having an outstanding season for the Club’s Second XI as an opening bat. His consistency helped the team consolidate a mid-table position, after a rocky first half of the season. He scored 516 runs from 16 innings at an average of 34.40 including two centuries and three half centuries, with a highest score of 108.

Third XI Player of the Year – Jemima Vereker

Although she was unable unfortunately to attend the Awards evening, Jemima became the first female cricketer to receive one of the Club’s awards, usually dominated by male players. Jemima is an all-round cricketer who scored 259 runs from nine innings at an average of 32.38 with a top score of 127 not out, which subsequently saw her picked for the Second XI the following week. She also picked up 10 wickets at a cost of only 140 runs from 34.1 overs at an average of 14.00 runs per wicket. An amazing performance throughout the season from a young lady who is also a regular member of the Devon Ladies cricket team. Her award was collected by Third XI Captain Alex Stevens.

Young Player of the Year – Joe Hopkins

Having become a regular for the Seconds in 2023 at the age of 15, Joe took his performances to a new level in 2024, averaging 24.90 with the bat as an opening partner with Jon James. He scored his first century for the Seconds with 116 not out. He also made his debut in the Firsts, including one match winning performance at Plympton. He became a regular in his age group for Devon in 2023, and scored a century for the U16’s at the beginning of the 2024 season. A great prospect for the future.

Most Improved Player – Sebi Gibbs

Sebi is one of the Club’s many talented U15 players who was not necessarily a regular choice for the Third XI at the beginning of season, but ended up being a regular performer in the Seconds. Although not a prolific wicket taker, he is very economical, and being a left arm seamer he offers something different. Another  great prospect for the future.

Outstanding Achievement – Pete Steer

This is an award that could go to anyone or any team. However, this year the voting public chose Steery’s performance against Ashburton, when he not only acted as captain for the day, but also took seven for 34 which included a hat-trick, and in doing so guided his Second team to an important victory.

Fielder of the Year – Tom Gidney

A very enthusiastic fielder with a safe pair of hands whether playing in the Firsts or the Seconds. Even he was surprised by the award!

Club Volunteer of the Year – Andy Gibson

Gibbo has been the Club Treasurer for the past 31 years, who at next month’s AGM will be hanging up his balance sheets and passing them over to Tracey Matthews. The Chairman, who chooses this award, felt this award should be made to Gibbo, not just for what he has done this year, but also to cover the last 31 years. Very well deserved, and happy retirement mate!

Phil Matten