2022 has been another successful season for Somerset Disabled Cricket Club. Whilst silverware alluded the league side in the final game of the season, the club grew more so than any year before. 2022 saw the introduction of the new development squad. The aim of this team is to provide additional cricket opportunities in a more competitive environment, exposing players of all abilities to how Somerset DCC play cricket. This side also brings a chance for players to develop their skills, practice in a match setting and to improve with the view of breaking into the league side.

The development side played a number of fixtures in its first year, with players both new and existing, grasping the opportunity to play more disabled cricket. There were standout performances in each game, all played in the Somerset spirit, instilling further the supportive nature in which we believe cricket should be played.

The league side had another strong season. The squad showed true resilience to cope with several injuries and illnesses through the season. However, the group stage ended with Somerset top of the group, having bounced back from a loss away from home against Gloucestershire to then go unbeaten through the rest of the group, including a big win against Wales and a highlight performance against Gloucestershire towards the end of July.

This run set up a second regional final for the league side in 2 years, this time against Gloucestershire hosted at Hawksbury Cricket Club. Somerset were set a mammoth total of 222 to win by a very strong batting side, and yet the side responded typically defiant. Supported by our usual strong following of family and friends, Somerset reached 207 – not enough to claim victory, but plenty in both statistics and manner of performance to be incredibly proud of.

2022 has been a brilliant spring board year for the club. Its highlighted things we are doing well; providing more disability cricket opportunities to as many people as possible, playing cricket with togetherness and inclusivity whilst being competitive at every level. Its also shown us areas we wish to improve on – namely better contingency plans for cancelled games (important for English summers!). The year as a whole has set the club up to really build further in 2023, both on and off the pitch.

Unfortunately, 2022 also saw us lose a dear friend. Stuart Allbut had umpired most, if not all of Somerset Disabled CC’s home games for over 15 years. He was a fantastic character and was with us through all of the highs and lows the club has been through over the years. Not only there with us, but making those experiences even more memorable. It was a genuine pleasure to be out in the middle with him, a true legend. Everyone at the club will miss him dearly. Thank you Stuart.