Hoddesdon Cricket Club’s HEBL 3rd XI kick off their 2025 Herts and Essex Border League Division 3 campaign this Saturday with an away fixture against Thorley Cricket Club 2nd XI.

After a positive pre-season, there is plenty of optimism surrounding Ross Maughn’s squad as they prepare for a big year ahead. Hoddesdon finished 6th in the division last season and will be looking to build on that foundation with the aim of challenging at the top end of the table in 2025. With fresh faces blending into the core group and players keen to make their mark, there is real excitement about what this team can achieve over the coming months.

Saturday’s hosts, Thorley CC 2nd XI, endured a difficult season last year, finsihing 11th, and will be just as eager to start their campaign on the right foot. Playing at their home ground on Thorley Lane East in Bishop’s Stortford, they will look to use home advantage and make life tough for Hoddesdon. Matches between these sides have traditionally been close, hard-fought affairs, and Saturday’s encounter promises to be no different. Last season, Thorley recorded a 48 run victory over Maughn's team with Hoddesdon being skittled for just 123 as they chased 171. Captain David Wheatley notched up a fine effort of 39 runs to set the tone for the Essex based side, with Subin Poulose adding another 47 before being caught by Austin Bean off the bowling of Neil Conner. In response, Paul Webb top scored with 23 but he couldn't steer his side to victory on that sunny mid July day.

Captain Ross Maughn has called for a midday meet time to ensure the squad is fully prepared and ready for the 1pm start. Attention to detail, early intensity, and sharpness in the field could make all the difference as both sides look to shake off any early-season rust and set the tone for the campaign ahead.

The Herts and Essex Border League Division 3 line-up looks strong and competitive this year. Familiar names such as Harlow Town 3rd XI, Dunmow 3rd XI, Matching Green 2nd XI and Broxbourne 5th XI all feature, alongside a few new-look teams like Little Munden 1st XI and Stansted Hall & Elsenham 2nd XI. It’s a division packed with variety, and consistency will be the key for any team with ambitions of lifting silverware or securing promotion.

For Hoddesdon, starting well on Saturday is crucial. Momentum early in the season can often prove vital in a competitive league, and three points on the board would provide the perfect springboard for a successful year. Ross Maughn will be hoping for big performances from some of his experienced heads, while also giving opportunities for emerging talents to step up and shine.

Thorley will not make it easy, and playing away from home always brings its own challenges. The Thorley Lane East ground is known for offering a good contest between bat and ball, so adapting quickly to the conditions could prove decisive.

Supporters, friends, and family are all very welcome to come along and cheer on Hoddesdon as they look to make a winning start to the season. Every voice and every bit of encouragement could help spur the team over the line.

Best of luck to Ross and the team for Saturday – let’s bring those points back to Hoddesdon and set the tone for a memorable 2025 season!

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