MATCH REPORT: Church Eaton Development XI vs Wheaton Aston 1st XI
Date: Saturday 19th April 2025
Venue: Church Eaton Cricket Ground
Format: 30 Overs per side
Result: Wheaton Aston won by 119 runs

Church Eaton’s Development XI kicked off their 2025 campaign with a stern test against a strong Wheaton Aston 1st XI side—recently promoted to Division 2 in the Shropshire League. The home side, prioritising youth and opportunity, fielded a side packed with academy talent, including an astonishing senior debut for 11-year-old Henry Trayte, who would go on to steal the spotlight in more ways than one.

Batting first, Wheaton Aston made the most of the conditions, finishing their 30 overs on 190 for 7. The highlight of the innings came from Andy Nicol, who played a blistering knock of 76 retired not out, peppered with 12 boundaries and a six—displaying a level of ball striking that left Church Eaton’s juniors both shell-shocked and inspired.

Church Eaton’s young bowlers stuck to their task admirably. Oscar Trayte (2-15) impressed with sharp bowling and clever changes of pace, while Archie Wilkes also claimed two wickets early in the innings to give the hosts hope. There were also wickets for Elliot Robinson, Steve Pedley, and Oliver Rowlands, who showed much-improved pace and bounce—no doubt helped by his “extra 12 feet of height” gained over the winter! His two bouncers caught everyone off guard—including the batters.

In reply, Church Eaton never quite got going. Facing a disciplined bowling attack and some sharp fielding, they were bundled out for 71 in the final over. Laurence Sidwell (15) and Oliver Rowlands (11) were the only batters to reach double figures. Ben Marson (2-14) and Dave Wood (2-12) did the early damage for Wheaton Aston, backed up by tidy spells from Andy Nicol, Joe Marson, and Edward Hargreaves.

But the real fairytale moment came from debutant Henry Trayte, who bowled with composure beyond his years and claimed two wickets on debut—an achievement that earned him well-deserved applause from both sides. A proud moment for him and the club, and one that will live long in the memory.

The match was played in great spirit, with both clubs recognising the value of these developmental opportunities. It also gave Church Eaton a clear look at where they stand early in the season, and just how much promise lies within their young ranks.

One lighter moment that had everyone in stitches came when Rab Cooper was run out in dramatic fashion—falling over mid-pitch and unintentionally mooning most of the fielding side as his trousers followed gravity’s command. Cue roaring laughter from players and spectators alike!

Special thanks go to groundsman Gerry Plant, whose tireless work over the past month has left the Church Eaton ground looking fantastic ahead of the season. Alongside him, the club’s volunteers and ground team deserve a massive shoutout for their efforts, often working late evenings and weekends to ensure the club continues to move forward.