Author: Sushil@CCS

Cheltenham Cricket Society enjoyed yet another memorable evening at the Victory Club, where Gloucestershire Cricket Club’s coach Mark Alleyne, chairman Peter Matthews, and T20 Vitality Blast-winning captain Jack Taylor took centre stage. Interviewed by our own Ian Randall, the panel delivered an insightful and engaging discussion, offering members a fascinating look into the club’s present and future plans.

With the T20 Vitality Blast trophy proudly on display, members were treated to first-hand accounts of Gloucestershire’s thrilling triumph, with Taylor sharing key moments from the campaign and Alleyne offering his expert perspective on the squad’s success. The panel also took a range of questions from an attentive audience, covering the club’s future plans.

As expected, questions relating to GCCC finances and plans especially post “The Hundred” allocations were prominent. At the moment GCCC is not wholly clear regarding the exact amount of revenue it will receive from The Hundred allocation, when it will arrive, and if there will be restrictions on how it can be used. It is however a great opportunity for GCCC moving forward and one that the club will take full advantage off.

In addition, the much-discussed relocation of GCCC is now unlikely to happen within the next five years, with focus shifting to improvements at the Seat Unique Stadium, Nevil Road to enhance facilities and thus increase the chances of hosting more International matches in the future.

It was really pleasing to hear that following the lobbying by GCCC Cheltenham would host two four-day Championship Games in 2025 a move the club sees as both financially beneficial and an opportunity to host big-name counties.

Current and future plans and challenges for GCCC aside, Mark Alleyne was very eloquent in rightly requesting that we do not lose site of the joy of participating and watching Cricket at all levels.

This was another classic evening for the Society, full of insight, entertainment, and optimism for the future of Gloucestershire cricket. A big thank you to Mark, Peter, Jack, and Ian for making the night such a success!

Sushil Sidhu/ Robin Barnes / Roy Taylor – March 2025

Cheltenham Cricket Society welcomed former Worcestershire cricketer Joe Leach as our guest speaker. Joe, an accomplished and respected bowler, batter and former county captain, provided entertaining insights into his cricketing journey, leadership experiences, and thoughts on the future of the game.

Early Life and Cricketing Inspirations

Joe spoke warmly of his upbringing in Staffordshire, where his grandfather was a significant influence, instilling in him a passion for cricket from a young age. His education at Shrewsbury School provided him with outstanding cricketing facilities, which he rated as being on par with Loughborough. During his early career, he played alongside James Taylor, who went on to represent England, and forged a strong friendship with him.

University and Early Cricket Career

Joe pursued a degree in French & Philosophy at Leeds University, balancing his studies with playing cricket. 

He initially joined the Worcestershire Academy in 2009, making his first-class debut in 2012 as a batsman coming in at No. 6. However, his bowling skills soon developed, and the county eventually saw him as more of a frontline bowler and, later, an all-rounder.

County Career and Captaincy

Joe’s breakthrough season in 2015 firmly established him as a key player for Worcestershire. That same year, he was appointed vice-captain, later assuming the role of club captain for five seasons—a rare feat for a fast bowler. He recalled with pleasure scoring 114 against Gloucestershire at the 2013 Cheltenham Cricket Festival – one of his favourite cricketing venues.

Challenges and Transitions

His tenure as captain coincided with both success and challenges. He managed a youthful squad while leading from the front, recording back-to-back 60-wicket seasons. However, a stress fracture in 2018 made leadership more demanding, especially with a young and inexperienced squad.

In 2023, he was joint top wicket-taker for Worcestershire, helping them remain in Division One—an achievement he was particularly proud of. However, a knee injury forced him to reconsider his future, ultimately leading to his retirement at the end of the season. He shared that he had one year left on his contract but chose to step away at the top of his game rather than play a reduced role.

Views on the Modern Game

Joe shared insightful views on the future of county cricket, noting that while the Hundred competition has brought in significant investment, mismanagement could still threaten some smaller counties. He acknowledged the financial pull of franchise cricket, noting that players will naturally be drawn to lucrative leagues like the IPL at the expense of county commitments.

Women’s Cricket and Post-Retirement Ambitions

Joe was highly optimistic about the future of the women’s game, citing increased participation at the grassroots level and greater financial backing.

Post-retirement, he has remained active in cricket, pursuing coaching qualifications and setting up a female cricket equipment business. He humorously mentioned that babysitting duties have also been keeping him busy!

Final Thoughts

In the Q&A session, Joe answered questions on topics ranging from his calm and measured temperament and coaching style to England’s prospects in the forthcoming Ashes series. His  views on the latter were that England’s bowling attack will be key and the “Baz ball” style of play will really be in the spotlight. 

The question on concussion substitutes was particularly topical. This was referencing the controversial decision in the recent  India vs. England T20 series, where Rana (a bowler) replaced Dube a batter who had suffered a concussion blow. Joe questioned the substitution in terms of fairness and the strict adherence to the rules as on paper it was not a like for like substitution. In addition the fact that Dube returned to play in the 5th T20 after 48 hours rather than wait 7 days as recommended did attract further criticism.

However, Dube did bowl in the final T20 game with figures of 2-11 so proved that he is an effective all rounder. England Captain Jos Buttler did admit that the substitution was not a reason for England losing the 4th T20 game so the criticisms might have been overblown. 

The evening ended with a warm vote of thanks together with a presentation of a CCS Umbrella and 2025 Calendar by Mike Hitchings. Joe was thanked for his exemplary service for Worcestershire and for thoroughly entertaining the CCS members. 

Sushil Sidhu – February 2025

Matthew Maynard’s visit to the Cheltenham Cricket Society marked his first return since 2002. Warmly welcomed by an enthusiastic audience who had braved a cold winter’s evening to hear Matthew speak and share his experience with openness, humility, and a deep love for the game. A class act both as a player and coach, Matthew treated members to a journey through his cricketing career and charitable work, blending insight, humor, and fond memories.

A Journey Through a Distinguished Career

Matthew began by recounting his early days growing up in Anglesey and how he learned to play cricket, eventually making his debut for Glamorgan in memorable fashion. His 102 against Yorkshire, featuring three consecutive sixes, was a standout story that captivated the room. He reflected on becoming Glamorgan’s youngest player to score 1,000 runs in a season and how that success paved the way for his England debut.

Playing alongside and against greats like Courtney Walsh, Javed Miandad, and Malcolm Marshall provided a batting masterclass of invaluable lessons for batting, particularly on handling the short ball and spin. Matthew’s anecdotes about Walsh’s pace and accuracy, and his admiration for overseas players like Saqlain Mushtaq and his revolutionary “doosra,” offered fascinating glimpses into the evolution of the game which we see today.

Fond Memories and Coaching Insights

Matthew reminisced about his experiences at the Cheltenham Festival, where he scored four centuries in 2 matches and his transition to coaching under Duncan Fletcher. His tenure as England’s assistant coach gave him a unique perspective on team dynamics, contrasting the style and approach adopted during his playing days with the more inclusive, supportive approach under Duncan Fletcher and subsequent coaches.

Charity Work and Personal Endeavors

The CCS membership was deeply moved by Matthew’s reflections and motivation for his charity work, inspired by the memory of his late son, Tom. His efforts, including cycling challenges, carrying out the Three Peaks and walking from John O’Groats to Land’s End in “wellies” have raised significant funds for cricket facilities for nurturing young talent.

Thoughts on the Modern Game

During a lively Q&A session, Matthew addressed topics ranging from Afghanistan’s participation in the 2025 World Cup and if the England team should boycott the game to the role of technology in cricket decision-making. Whilst very supportive of the role of umpires in ensuring adherence to the rules, Matthew also emphasised the importance and value of modern innovations like the “decision review” systems that are in place at the top levels of cricket.

Matthew’s appearance at CCS provided a blend of nostalgia, technical insight, and heartfelt advocacy for the game and its future. His passion, knowledge, and charitable spirit will leave a lasting impression on CCS members and cement his status as an excellent ambassador for the game of cricket.

Cheltenham Cricket Society was privileged to host Matthew and his words will undoubtedly resonate with members for years to come. Hopefully he will not leave it for another 20+ years before his next appearance.

Sushil Sidhu – January 2025

Chris Dent, Gloucestershire batsman and left arm orthodox bowler kindly stepped in at the last minute to be our final guest speaker of 2024. Chris dealt with a wide range of questions from our Ken Burney and then from the floor in an insightful, open and inspirational manner. Chris was applauded by CCS members when he spoke about his recent challenges and how playing in the West of England Premier League (WEPL) last summer has helped him rediscover his love of playing cricket.

All images kindly taken and provided courtesy of Andrew Pugh.

English Cricketer, journalist and writer Simon Hughes known to many as “The Analyst “ graced the CCS stage to a packed membership as he had done in 2005.

Intelligent, knowledgeable and in a thoroughly entertaining style Simon started by answering a question from our new Chairman Ken Burney on what inspired him to start playing cricket. Simon responded by sharing how as a 10 year old, playing in his back garden, he was curious to check out and investigate what the loud and frequent shrieks emanating from the nearby cricket pitch near his home in Ealing, West London were. Only to discover they were shouts of “howzaaat” from the cricket players. It was probably this and the nurturing from his father (actor Peter Hughes) that led him to pursue his successful cricketing career as a right arm fast medium bowler.

Having played during the golden years of the game in the 1980’s and 90’s Simon was able to share tales of playing with the greats  such as Ian Botham, Mike Brearley, Mike Gatting, Mike Selvey, Graham Barlow, Norman Cowans to name a few but also comedic encounters with Geoff Boycott, Malcolm Marshall and John Emburey.

The “off the pitch” stories Simon shared were equally entertaining and humorous. These were from a time when maybe pre match preparations and post match celebrations were probably done a little differently to what the professional players of today are accustomed to. Maybe not as many sports psychology therapy sessions or post match ice water baths then as there are for the professional cricket players of today.

Finally, Simon was able to answer questions from the CCS membership on topical matters ranging from the charges of racism in the game to the 100 format. His breadth of experience playing, reporting, writing and being involved in the game for the last 45+ years allowed him to answer those questions, authoritatively and pragmatically.

Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable session and hopefully Simon won’t leave it for another 20 years before he joins the CCS members again!!  

In the meantime, for those that can’t wait that long access “The Analyst Inside Cricket” podcast that Simon presents and produces with the BBC’s Simon Mann.        

Please click on the Gallery link here or in the top menu to view additional photos from the evening. 

All images courtesy of Pete Wilson.