Esher U13 Griffins are on the verge of a memorable achievement after progressing to the semi-finals of the Vitality U13 Club T20 competition, capping off an outstanding season that has already delivered silverware and plenty of impressive performances.
The Surrey club’s journey began in the Surrey U13 County Cup, where victories over Leatherhead, Malden Wanderers and East Molesey secured a place in the final against Spencer at Kingston Grammar School.
After losing the toss and being asked to bat first, Esher found scoring difficult against some disciplined opening bowling. However, valuable lower-order contributions helped the side post 142/9 from their 20 overs. In response, a strong bowling display reduced Spencer to 27/5 before they were eventually bowled out for 66, handing Esher a convincing victory and the county title.
The County Cup success saw Esher advance to the national stages of the competition, beginning with a trip to Hertfordshire champions Harpenden. Despite an early start and some tired legs following England’s FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture against Norway the previous evening, Esher produced another polished performance.
Having elected to bowl first, they restricted Harpenden to 73 all out in 17.5 overs, with an excellent fielding display playing a key role. The target was then chased down in just 13.3 overs, securing a six-wicket win.
Esher’s next challenge came against Berkshire champions Slough. Once again, disciplined bowling proved decisive as Slough were limited to 100 all out from their 20 overs. Esher responded confidently with the bat, reaching their target in 16.1 overs to progress with a five-wicket victory.
The team’s most recent success came at the London & East Regional Finals Day at Teddington Cricket Club.
In the morning semi-final, Esher faced Middlesex champions Old Merchant Taylors. After choosing to bowl first, they reduced their opponents to 31/5 before some late resistance lifted the total to 97/6. The chase proved tense, but Esher’s final batting pair calmly guided the side over the line to complete another hard-fought win.
That victory set up an afternoon final against Essex champions Upminster. Batting first, Esher posted 124/7, aided by two top-order retirements. A disciplined fast-bowling performance then restricted Upminster’s scoring throughout the innings, with Esher emerging victorious by 29 runs to claim the regional title.
The team has also enjoyed success closer to home, winning the Surrey Sunday T1A League during an excellent campaign.
Attention now turns to the national semi-final on 17 August at Wokingham Cricket Club, where Esher will face Lions Youth CC, champions of Dorset and the South West region. The reward for victory would be a place in the national final at the iconic Nursery Ground at Lord’s in September.
A key feature of Esher’s run has been the contribution of players throughout the squad, with 16 different players featuring during the campaign.
Reflecting on the season so far, Esher U13 Age Group Manager Paul Hawkins said:
“The boys have had a superb season and their progress has been built on contributions from throughout the squad. Sixteen different players have played their part during the cup run, and the way the team has approached every challenge has made all the coaches, managers and parents incredibly proud. We’re now looking forward to the semi-final and the opportunity it presents.”
Whatever happens in the next stage of the competition, Esher U13 Griffins’ achievements this season represent a fantastic example of youth cricket development and teamwork, with the team now just one win away from the chance to play at Lord’s.
