Abridge CC 2nd XI vs Hoddesdon CC 3rd XI

Saturday 31st May 2025
The John Lockwood Ground, Hoe Lane, Abridge, Romford, RM4 1AX
1:00pm Start
Herts & Essex Border League – Division 3

Green Machine Eye Third Win As Promotion Race Heats Up
The #GreenMachine hits the road this weekend for another crucial early-summer clash — and the stakes are rising fast.

Fresh from last Saturday’s thrilling 33-run win over local rivals Broxbourne at Thundridge, Hoddesdon’s HEBL 3rd XI head to Abridge looking to extend their winning run and tighten their grip on the top three in Division 3.

With just four rounds played, the league table is already taking shape — and every result now feels loaded with importance. Hoddesdon sit third on 65 points, just behind Dunmow CC 3rd XI and Stansted Hall & Elsenham CC 2nd XI, who share top spot on 80 points apiece after perfect starts.

Victory this Saturday would keep Hoddy right in the hunt — and with in-form players, renewed momentum and a determined squad, confidence is running high.

Current Division 3 Table: Top 5
Pos Team P W Pts
Dunmow CC – 3rd XI 4 4 80
Stansted Hall & Elsenham CC – 2nd XI 4 4 80
Hoddesdon CC – 3rd XI 4 2 65
Matching Green CC – 2nd XI 4 2 56
Little Munden CC – 1st XI 4 2 55

Momentum Restored After Broxbourne Battle
Last Saturday’s 33-run victory over Broxbourne was the perfect response to the previous defeat away at Stansted. Batting first on a true Thundridge wicket, Hoddesdon posted a season-high 247/5, built on superb contributions from Finlay Higgs (74), Tyler Burroughs (59) and Paul Webb (47).

In reply, Broxbourne fought hard but were pinned back by a match-winning spell from Ash Hill, who spun his way to 5-46 to seal the 20-point win and clinch the coveted Greene King Green Jacket award for performance of the weekend. That result lifted Hoddesdon back into the promotion mix — and with the team now finding its groove, Saturday’s trip to Abridge is another key opportunity to push on.

Scouting the Opposition: Abridge CC 2nd XI
Currently sitting 6th in the table on 48 points, Abridge are an unpredictable side but one with clear strengths — especially at home. An impressive victory against a visiting Broxbourne side probably the highlight of the season so far, with Pawandeep Singh swinging his way to a match winning 170 runs! Jack Archer also has a recent ton against Thorley so there is firepower in spades.

They’ve split their opening four matches with two wins and two losses, and are coming off the back of a battling performance last weekend, a home defeat to Stansted Hall & Elsenham on Saturday. On their day, they are capable of beating anyone, particularly if their top order clicks.

Their bowlers have already shown the ability to control games — but Hoddesdon will take heart from the fact that Abridge have also conceded runs under pressure. The trip to the picturesque John Lockwood Ground will present its own challenges, with the outfield quickening up as summer arrives and the wicket generally good for strokeplay.

Key Storylines & Players to Watch
Ross Maughn Leads the Charge
Skipper Ross Maughn continues to set the tone with calm leadership and sharp tactical nous. Having opened the batting last week, he’ll again look to anchor the innings and keep the group focused in what is expected to be a close contest.

Webb Family in Form
Paul Webb is in vintage touch after his 47 against Broxbourne, and Louis Webb will once again be a key figure with both ball and bat. Their experience and composure could be critical in this away fixture.

Burroughs and Hill: X-Factors
Tyler Burroughs was superb last week — his 59 from just 49 balls injected real energy into the innings. His fearless batting and athletic fielding could swing the momentum again.

Meanwhile, Ash Hill, fresh off his 5-wicket haul, will be the man Abridge will fear the most with the ball. His variations and consistency are proving a massive weapon in the middle overs.

Squad Depth Growing
The confirmed presence of Joe Clarke, Peter Draisey, Reece Jones, and Rudy Bean adds further options and depth to the travelling squad — a great sign as Hoddesdon look to build sustainable momentum in the weeks ahead. Draisey in particular brings years of experience and cricketing nous which Maughn can rely on when looking to solve problems and set partnership breaking fields.

The Venue: The John Lockwood Ground, Abridge
A classic Essex venue, The John Lockwood Ground is known for its friendly atmosphere and quality cricket surface. Typically a good batting wicket with a lightning-quick outfield, it should suit Hoddesdon’s in-form batting group — but early breakthroughs will be key if bowling first.

What’s at Stake
A win for Hoddesdon would consolidate their top-three position and potentially close the gap on the unbeaten leaders. For Abridge, victory would launch them into the top five and put them right back in the race. As the table shows, there’s little margin for error now — and both sides know that Saturday’s outcome could have big implications for the summer ahead.

From the Skipper: Maughn’s Message
“The boys were superb last week. That was the reaction we wanted — a proper team performance. Now it’s about building consistency. Abridge will be tough on their own ground, but we’re going there with confidence and clear plans. If we play our cricket, we’ll be in a good place.”

Form Guide (Last 3 Games)
Hoddesdon:

• Won by 33 runs vs Broxbourne
• Lost to Stansted Hall & Elsenham
• Concession win vs Harlow Town

Abridge:

• Lost last round
• Won round 3
• Lost round 2

Follow the Action
Can’t make it to Abridge? Don’t miss a moment — follow live updates, photos and post-match reaction on our social channels:

• Instagram: @hoddesdoncricketclub
• Twitter/X: @hoddesdoncc
• Facebook: Hoddesdon CC

Final Word
The race for promotion is well and truly on — and with form, belief and depth returning, Hoddesdon’s 3rd XI have everything to play for this weekend. Abridge will provide a stern test, but if the Green Machine can deliver another composed performance with bat and ball, they’ll take another big step forward in what is shaping up to be an exciting Division 3 campaign.

Roll on Saturday — let’s keep that momentum rolling.

#GreenMachine