Church Eaton Cricket Club are excited to see the 1st XI step up into Division 3 this season, following a dramatic end to last year.
After finishing third—just one point shy of automatic promotion—the side has now been given the opportunity to move up, bringing a renewed sense of optimism and excitement around the club.

?️ 1st XI Captain Matt White shared his thoughts ahead of the new season:
“After a highly positive 2025 season, which saw CE 1st XI finish third—just one point shy of automatic promotion—the club has been given an unexpected opportunity to compete in Division 3. This promotion has brought a renewed sense of optimism and excitement throughout the club.
Our primary focus this season will be to consolidate our position in Division 3, while continuing to develop our younger players into established first-team regulars. While the core of the squad remains strong, the contribution of our emerging talent will be vital. Encouragingly, based on their performances last season and their progress over the winter, they have shown they are more than capable of stepping up.

There is no doubt that moving up a division will present new challenges. However, we are confident in our ability as a squad to meet these head-on. Maintaining high levels of morale, togetherness, and team spirit will be key to our success, and these values will remain central to everything we do.

We are also committed to playing the game in the right way—competitively, but always in the true spirit of cricket.

I am proud to lead the 1st XI into this new chapter and look forward to reflecting on this report at the end of the season, hopefully having achieved the goals we have set ourselves.”

With a strong core, exciting young talent, and a united squad, the 1st XI head into the new season ready to embrace the challenge ??