It has been fantastic to see Taunton School pathway players continuing to train with Somerset, Devon and Cornwall across both girls’ and boys’ programmes. Pupils from the Senior School and Prep School have shown real commitment, taking on extra sessions to develop their skills — and it has been brilliant to see this work translate into match performances.

A particular highlight has been the number of pupils representing Somerset 2nd XI, including an impressive five in a single fixture: Oscar Co, Ben C, Jack B, Will M and Ben S. Many other players have now transitioned into outdoor training, with some sessions taking place at Taunton School’s own facilities.

Matches:

The season began with major block fixtures against Sherborne and Millfield Prep, with excellent levels of participation across both schools. We remain proud of the depth of cricket at Taunton School — in the Senior School, only Sherborne can field the same number of teams.

Early-season half‑centuries came from Charlotte W, Sophie D, Ben C and Lewis W. Since then, there have been numerous standout moments, including a successful trip to Canford. A cup win for the Girls’ 1st XI, Jess S with an unbeaten 44 including a 4 off the last ball. There have been excellent performances from our B teams — in both Prep and Senior — competing strongly against A teams in their respective competitions.

Individual highlights include:

  • Oscar C scoring the season’s highest total so far with 141
  • Will M taking a superb 6–28, both in a win at Clifton
  • Strong contributions from Harrison W, James P, Tommy G, Finn H, Bea H, Sophia P and Millie S

The final weekend of the half‑term produced two memorable matches, with the U15B and U15C teams both finishing in the rain. The B team narrowly missed out, while the C team secured a brilliant win thanks to an excellent batting display from Charlie F.

U15 Boys and Girls had a great afternoon playing two state schools. We mixed our A and B teams and both state schools got to play on the Front.

All A teams progressed in their cup competitions:

  • Year 8 vs Kings Hall
  • Year 9 vs Clevedon
  • Year 10 vs Castle

Plenty to look forward to after half‑term.

Changes and Developments:

We were delighted to welcome back OT Miss Roberts who has made an immediate impact coaching both girls’ and boys’ cricket.

This year also saw the introduction of the Cricket Licence in the Prep School — a new scheme designed to motivate pupils in Years 3–8 to develop all aspects of their game. Pupils can earn badges in batting, bowling and fielding, and once all three are achieved, they receive their full Licence, indicating readiness for hard‑ball cricket.

Another positive development has been the expansion of opportunities for Prep School pupils to play in junior Saturday fixtures. This initiative is open to players of all levels who are keen for additional match experience. Thank you to Mr Winsor for coordinating pupil interest.

Prep pupils have not only filled places but made meaningful contributions. Highlights include:

  • Oscar S top‑scoring vs Clifton
  • Oscar D and Barnaby R leading the bowling attacks
  • Erin W performing strongly with both bat and ball
  • Excellent efforts from Cate P, Gigi S, Esme H and Olivia S

Well done to all involved — your enthusiasm and commitment have been outstanding.