As the 2024 season draws to a close, Claygate Cricket Club can look back on a year filled with strong team performances, exciting matches, and standout achievements. With a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, the club demonstrated both resilience and skill throughout the season.

Claygate finished the season in 8th place in Surrey County League Division Two, which is a great effort after securing promotion last season from Division Three.

League Statistics
Matches Played: 18
Wins: 6
Losses: 10
Abandoned: 2

Top Run Scorer: Jake Murray – 333 runs at an average of 27.75, including 2 half-centuries. Highest score – 95 vs Bank of England CC.

Top Wicket Taker: Nicky Ison – 18 wickets at an average of 15.17, with a best bowling figure of 5/30 including a hat-trick against South Nutfield CC.

Memorable Wins
Victory Against Top of the League:
Date: 3rd August 2024
Opponent: South Nutfield CC
Result: Claygate CC win by 34 runs – Claygate CC 144 ao – South Nutfield 110 ao.

In a thrilling encounter, Claygate secured a narrow 34-run victory. Nicky Ison’s exceptional 5-wicket haul and Harry Holly’s crucial 58 runs ensured a dramatic win against the table toppers. Claygate was bowled out for 144 in 36 overs on a pitch that was offering a lot to the bowlers. The only partnership of the innings was between James Proudman (38) and Harry Holly (58), but a middle order collapse saw a quick end to the innings. Off-spinner Nicky Ison was introduced early into the attack and struck in his first over as Luke Webb took a smart catch in the slips. On a hot, dry day, the ball was turning consistently as Ison picked up the first 5 wickets in his 9 over spell. A couple of gifted runouts, along with wickets from Davies and Webb meant Claygate picked up the brilliant victory.

First win of the season -
Date: 8th June 2024
Opponent: Sutton Challengers CC
Result: Claygate CC win by 10 runs. Claygate CC 192 ao – Sutton Challengers 182 ao.

Superb team performance sets up first win of the season, away to Sutton Challengers. Plenty of starts in the top order but Jefe Cervello was the rock of the innings as his 53 off 81 balls was the foundation to set Sutton Challengers 193 to win. The skipper led from the front as Luke Webb picked up three early wickets. Inder Singh was Sutton Challengers only batsman to get going, he almost batted all the way through for his 97, but when he was the 9th man out, well caught by Ross Davies off Jefe Cervello, victory was in sight for Claygate. Jefe completed his MOTM performance, trapping Yadav first ball to seal the win.

Notable Performances

One game appearance: Matthew Proudman only appearance of the season came on the final day against West End. In what was probably the partnership of the season, Claygate were 45/4, but Proudman and Murray batted superbly and put on 113 for the 5th wicket. Matt batted throughout the innings and finished on a brilliant 87*, sadly Claygate fell 7 runs short against the promoted West End (Esher) CC.

Brilliant opening bowling: Oli Graham (3/23) and Ross Davies (3/6) opened against Bank of England CC and the mix of left arm spin and pace and bounce from Oli Graham, reducing BOECC to 30/6 – securing another win for Claygate CC.

Looking Ahead

With a solid foundation laid this season, Claygate Cricket Club is well-positioned for future success. We wait the outcome of the proposed structure changes for the 2025 season, but it was a very enjoyable season for the Claygate 1st XI. Hopefully the 2025 season brings more exciting wins and perhaps better availability.
Thanks to all players, supporters, and volunteers for their dedication and hard work throughout the season. Here’s to building on our success and striving for even greater achievements in the year ahead.