Writes Phil Davies, Director of Cricket
It has been an outstanding and action-packed first half of the cricket season at Merchant Taylors’, in part thanks to the remarkable breadth of our cricket programme. The School has fielded 25 competitive teams this term, a reflection of both the strength of cricket at all levels and an unwavering commitment to participation and player development. Across these sides, 97 fixtures have been played, with 72 victories celebrated, highlighting a consistently high standard of performance throughout the School.
The sheer scale of the programme has been matched by its success. Several teams have produced exceptional campaigns, with the U14A, U14B and U12B sides all remaining unbeaten so far this season—an impressive testament to their consistency and competitive spirit. This has also been evident at the junior end, where the U12 age group alone has fielded six teams, ensuring opportunities for all abilities. The U12F side will begin their fixtures after half term, further strengthening what is one of the largest and most vibrant sections of the cricket programme.
Alongside this, the Junior Lamb Premier League (softball) has provided a lively and inclusive competition. With teams adopting IPL identities, the league has been hotly contested and has played a key role in engaging younger players in a fun yet competitive environment.
The 1st XI has been in outstanding form and remain firmly in contention in the National T20 Cup. Their campaign began in spectacular fashion with a record-breaking 281–3 in the opening round, underlining the batting strength within the side. Confidence is high as they look to progress deeper into the competition.
There have also been notable successes in national competitions. The U17s have enjoyed an excellent run in The Cricketer National Cup, securing impressive wins over Haberdashers’, RGS High Wycombe and Abingdon. The U15s have also made a powerful start to their ESCA National Cup defence, with a superb first-round victory over Epsom College—a match widely regarded as being of final quality.
Whilst cricket is a team sport, there have been plenty of individually brilliant moments to celebrate as well. Rishi M. (Divs) leads the run charts with 434 runs, including two centuries. Our 1st XI captain, Rahul R. (U6th), is close behind on 420 runs, demonstrating strong leadership with the bat. Arjun M. (4ths) holds an outstanding average of 69.60, reflecting remarkable consistency.
Notably, across the School, there have also been eight centuries scored so far, with Rishi M. (Divs) and Agastya D. (L6th) each registering two.
With the ball, performances have been equally impressive. Eshan C. (Divs) leads with 29 wickets, including a superb 5–8 on his 1st XI debut. Further, Adam K. (Divs) and Aarav C. (L6th) have both taken 20 wickets apiece.
In total, the season has already produced six five-wicket hauls and two hat-tricks, underlining the potency of the bowling attack across all age groups.
Looking ahead, with 25 competitive teams, exceptional participation across all year groups, and strong performances in both fixtures and national competitions, the first half of the season has set a very high standard. The programme continues to balance excellence and inclusivity, and there is every expectation that success will continue into the second half of term.
Merchant Taylors’ cricket remains in a truly strong position—defined by depth, performance, and a clear passion for the game at every level.
