Page 43 - OM Newsletter 2024-2025

Cricket Club
After last year’s early exit, the OMs bounced back in dramatic fashion on Sunday 8th June, defeating Shrewsbury Saracens in a nail-biting first-round match of the Beechbrook Capital Cricketer Cup on The Senior. In nearly 60 years of Cricketer Cup history, few games matched this one for drama.
Cricketer Cup 2025
Captain Josh Haynes lost the toss and Shrewsbury came out swinging, racing to 30-0 in three overs. Tight bowling from Angus Catto and Liam Smith slowed the pace, and Haynes claimed the crucial wicket, shifting
momentum. The visitors were eventually restricted to 210 all out in 50 overs - a competitive but chaseable target.
The OMs’ reply began at 3-3 but Alex Milton anchored the innings with a masterful 82, supported by Dan Holland with 28 and Mahaaz Ahmed, who dazzled with 58 including audacious reverse sweeps. Despite a late run-out, the team held firm, reaching 211-7 with just balls to spare.
Cheers erupted from the Pavilion and Patrons marquee as the OMs celebrated a remarkable comeback. Milton’s innings was hailed as one of the finest in recent Cricketer Cup memory and meant Malvern remains unbeaten by Shrewsbury in the history of the Cricketer Cup.
The day also featured Ricky Ellcock presenting his book Balls to Fly, and former England wicketkeeper and painter Jack Russell MBE unveiling his commissioned painting of The Senior. The original sold for £9,000, with 150 limited edition prints available to purchase – see page 63.
Finally, a special tribute was paid to Graham Busby, OMCC’s devoted scorer for over four decades, who was made an honorary member of the OMCC Patrons’ Club.
Sadly, Malvern was knocked out of this year’s competition in Round Two against Tonbridge but will be back stronger than ever next year.
Dan Holland cover drive Malvern vs Shrewsbury
Further information
Members of all ages are warmly invited to join. If you are interested in finding out more about the OM Cricket Club, please see page 60 or scan the QR code.
Mahaaz Ahmed (2.13-18), Angus Catto (5.17-22), Ricky Ellcock (SH.81-82), Josh Haynes (5.12-17), Dan Holland (SH.15-20), Alex Milton, (5.10-14), Liam Smith (5.10-15)
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