The 2026 Cricketer Cup campaign got off to a flying start on Sunday 14th June, with the Waifs securing a brilliant 84-run victory over Old Cranleighans in front of a fantastic home crowd on Pit.

Resilient Batting Sets the Target

Having won the toss and elected to bat on a green but true wicket, the Waifs top order faced some testing early spells from the Cranleigh bowlers. At a crucial juncture in the innings, Cricketer Cup debutant Olly Boulton and Finn Brabham came together to shift the momentum. The pair batted with immense maturity, putting together an outstanding 100-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Olly celebrated his debut cap with a vital 60, while Finn cleared the ropes comfortably on his way to a superb 55.

When Cranleigh threatened to fight back with quick wickets, captain Tom Ettridge and Craig Williams wrestled back control. Their excellent 72-run partnership for the eighth wicket deflated the opposition and successfully propelled the Waifs to an imposing total of 255-8 from our 50 overs.

Clinical Bowling Seals the Victory

The Cranleigh reply looked menacing on paper, particularly with ex-Warwickshire professional wicket-keeper Michael Burgess anchoring their top order. However, the Waifs' bowling attack put on an absolute masterclass in discipline and pressure.

Oli Smithson was dominate with the new ball, returning figures of 3 for 21 to dismantle the top order. Finn Brabham then completed a phenomenal all-round performance, backing up his half-century with a return of 3 for 38 to collapse the visitors' resistance, including the key wicket of Michael Burgess. Old Cranleighans were eventually bowled out for 171, handing the Waifs a magnificent 84-run win.

Special congratulations go to both Olly Boulton and Ben Kenny, who represented the club beautifully on their tournament debuts.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the exceptional number of supporters who lined the boundary on Pit.