Cowdrey Cricket Club Announces Two Overseas Signings for the 2025 Season

Cowdrey Cricket Club is delighted to welcome two outstanding overseas players for the 2025 season: South African wicket-keeper batsman&nbsp;Nicholas van der Colff&nbsp;and Sri Lankan batting all-rounder&nbsp;Pramud Hettiwatte. Both players will bolster our adult teams in the Kent League and contribute to the development of the next generation of cricketers by assisting with coaching in our junior section.

At just 18 years old, Nicholas (or "Nico") van der Colff is a rising talent from Gauteng, South Africa. A right-handed top-order batsman and sharp wicket-keeper, Nico has already made a significant impact in his cricketing journey. Having represented Namibia at the national level up to the age of 16, he has since honed his skills with Gauteng-based Khosa Cricket Club and Delfos Cricket Club, competing in the Delfos Premier League.

Nico’s explosive batting style and ability behind the stumps have earned him accolades, including being named Player of the Tournament while representing St Peter’s High School on the national stage in 2023/24. Now, he’s ready to embark on his first UK season, bringing his talent and enthusiasm to Cowdrey. Nico will be a key player for the adult teams in the Kent League, and his youthful energy will undoubtedly inspire our junior players as he takes on a coaching role within the club.

Returning to Cowdrey for another season, Pramud Hettiwatte is a left-handed top-order batsman and left-arm orthodox spinner with a proven track record both in Sri Lankan domestic cricket and in the UK. Pramud has played for top-tier Sri Lankan clubs, including Ace Capital Cricket Club, and has shone in first-class cricket, averaging 38.41 and 37.23 with the bat during the 2019/20 and 2022/23 seasons, respectively.

Pramud is no stranger to Cowdrey, having delivered an exceptional 2023 season with 780 runs at an average of 41.05 and 13 wickets at 18.08. His all-round ability and experience make him an invaluable asset to the adult teams in the Kent League. Off the field, Pramud’s UKCC Level 2 coaching qualification will allow him to play a vital role in nurturing young talent within our junior section, sharing his expertise and passion for the game.

Both Nico and Pramud embody the values of Cowdrey Cricket Club: skill, dedication, and a commitment to fostering a love for cricket at all levels. We’re thrilled to have them on board for the 2025 season and are confident they will make a significant impact both on and off the field.

Let’s give them a warm Cowdrey welcome and get ready for an exciting season ahead!

Over 50 young cricket enthusiasts participated in our All-Stars program, where they had the opportunity to experience the joy and excitement of playing cricket. Many took to the field for the first time, and their enthusiasm was contagious.

Our Under 9 team deserves special recognition for their outstanding performance. Despite competing against older opponents, they demonstrated incredible skills and determination, finishing an impressive 6th in the county Super 8s. Their resilience and teamwork were truly commendable.

This year, we introduced three under-11 League Hardball teams, giving our players more chances to experience the thrill of competitive cricket. Seeing them embrace the challenges, learn from each match, and grow as cricketers was fantastic.

Our Under 12 team showcased their immense talent by reaching the finals day of the ECB knockout, scheduled for April 2024. This is a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and commitment to the sport. We do not doubt that they will continue to excel in the future.

We fielded two under-13 league teams, nurturing the skills and passion of our young cricketers. It is inspiring to witness their growth and development, not only as players but also as individuals.

The U15 team deserves special recognition for their outstanding achievement of winning the Invicta U15 Championship. Their dedication, teamwork, and exceptional performance throughout the season were remarkable. We are incredibly proud of their success.

In addition to their age group competitions, several juniors had the opportunity to play adult league cricket. It is a testament to their talent and hard work that they held their own and delivered notable match-winning performances. Their passion for the game and ability to rise to the challenge were awe-inspiring.

Our Ladies Corals team welcomed several junior members who demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication. Together, they finished in a commendable 3rd place in the recent Kent softball festival. Their achievements highlight the inclusive and supportive environment we strive to create at Cowdrey CC.

Cowdrey CC takes great pride in providing cricket opportunities to children of all abilities and backgrounds. It brings us immense joy to witness the growth and development of every child across our squads. As dedicated volunteers, we find it incredibly rewarding to offer them a pathway to thrive, forge lifelong friendships, and embrace the fantastic game of cricket.

Everyone connected with the club celebrates the remarkable achievements of our junior players and the values of inclusivity, teamwork, and camaraderie that define Cowdrey CC. Together, we’ll continue to nurture their love for the game and support them in their cricketing journey!

Cowdrey CC 2023 Junior Review

Exciting times ahead for the Cowdrey Corals Women’s squad. We’ve secured not one but two new sponsors –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.askpartners.co.uk/">ASK Partners</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.snapfitness.com/uk/gyms/tonbridge">Snap Fitness</a>.

ASK Partners is a boutique, specialist property lender offering tailored real estate finance solutions across the capital structure and real estate sectors. Their emphasis on promoting social cohesion and equality aligns perfectly with the ethos of Cowdrey Cricket Club. Their CEO, Daniel Austin, speaks to the heart of the matter, highlighting the shared values between ASK Partners and Cowdrey CC. It’s a partnership that goes beyond financial backing; it’s about supporting the ambition and diversity that sport can foster.

“We’re delighted to be sponsoring Cowdrey CC’s women’s team! At ASK we support a number of sports teams because we believe in the power that sport has in promoting social cohesion, diversity, equality and ambition. We are proud to be supporting an organisation which is pursuing these same values by offering equal opportunities to women in sport.”

Daniel Austin, CEO and Co-founder, ASK Partners

Snap Fitness gyms offer 24-hour fitness with cardio and strength equipment, personal training, group fitness classes, and a supportive environment. Their dedication to personal training and group fitness classes makes them a perfect partner for Cowdrey CC. Their sponsorship isn’t just about getting their name out there; it’s about encouraging more women to hit their fitness goals, whether on the cricket pitch or in the gym.

“We are thrilled to sponsor the women’s cricket squad because we believe in promoting fitness, teamwork, and living a healthy lifestyle; We want to build sport in our local community and highlight the benefits, both mentally and physically, of being active. By supporting women’s cricket, we are hopefully encouraging more women to pursue their fitness goals and dreams.”

Mark Lilly, General Manager, Snap Fitness Tonbridge

The impact of these sponsorships is huge for the club. It’s not just about the financial support, which is crucial, but also about the message it sends. When local businesses invest in women’s sports, it sends a message to the local Tonbridge community and beyond that it matters. It’s about visibility and viability, showing young girls and women that there’s a place for them in sport, and that place is being taken seriously. The aim for Julie Crawford, the rest of the Corals squad and the whole of Cowdery CC isn’t just to play cricket but to create a safe and shared space for Girls and Women’s cricket in Tionbridge and inspire the next generation of women to step up to the crease.

To sum it up, the support from ASK Partners and Snap Fitness is a game-changer for the Cowdrey Corals. We’re set to continue to make waves in women’s cricket, and with these partnerships, we’re stronger than ever. Here’s to hitting new heights, both on and off the pitch!

Cowdrey Corals Hit A Six With New Sponsors

Cowdrey Cricket Club is extremely proud to announce that we have signed two overseas players for the 2024 season. Both will be key members of our adult squads, and part of the junior coaching team set up for the 2024 season.

Rajat Dey, a talented batsman from India, joins us this year. He is a unique and highly capable cricketer who plays for Tripura across all formats in Indian domestic cricket. Not only is he a fine batter, but he also bowls both right-arm seamers and left-arm orthodox spin. Last summer (2022/23), he struck a career-best 89 during the Ranji season and averaged mid-20s in both white-ball formats.

Harindu Jayasekera, an accomplished all-rounder from Sri Lanka, is another exciting addition to our team for the 2024 season. Harindu brings with him international experience, having played for the Sri Lanka U19 squad and currently representing Kandy CC in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

We eagerly anticipate Rajat and Harindu’s valuable contributions to the club. Their unique skills and international experience will surely play a significant role in our success in 2024.

Cowdrey Welcomes 2024 Overseas Players

We’re so excited that All Stars is back at Cowdrey CC in 2024!

For Girls &amp; boys aged 5-8, it’s the perfect way to introduce young kids to the great game of cricket.

Saturday mornings, 09:15-10:15 from 11th May – 29th June.

Sign up via the ECB link to book your child’s place:&nbsp;<a href="https://ecb.clubspark.uk/AllStars/BookCourse/8253fafc-78bf-4808-b0ef-df4061fcfca8">https://ecb.clubspark.uk/AllStars/BookCourse/8253fafc-78bf-4808-b0ef-df4061fcfca8</a>

Sign Up For All Stars 2024

Calling all ladies! We would like to get you involved in playing this great game, so Cowdrey CC will be hosting our first taster evening on Tuesday 7th May, starting at 18:30pm. This event is suitable for absolute beginners – no experience or kit required.

Come along – with friends, colleagues, school mums, family, whatever. We’ll show you the basics and get you involved in a casual, fun game of cricket on the night.

All you need to do is register with us, either as a team of six or an individual. Entry is free and every team will get a bottle of Prosecco (non alcoholic alternative available too) and a great night of cricket!Please contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:juliturn@hotmail.com">juliturn@hotmail.com</a>&nbsp;to register.

Women's Softball Cricket Taster Evening

This year marks the 75th anniversary of Cowdrey CC. To celebrate we’re putting on a very special evening hosted by former Kent and England captain,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/chris-cowdrey-10843" target="_blank">Chris Cowdrey</a>&nbsp;with special guest former England captain,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/david-gower-13418" target="_blank">David Gower OBE</a>.

This will be a fantastic evening for members, friends and family to celebrate the past, present and future of Cowdrey CC.

Cowdrey CC 75th Anniversary Dinner

Cowdrey Cricket Club are extremely proud to announce that we have signed two overseas players for the 2023 season.

Sri Lankan batting all-rounder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espncricinfo.com/cricketers/pramud-hettiwatte-952413" target="_blank">Pramud Hettiwatte</a>, is an exciting top-order batting prospect, playing for ACE Capital CC in the top tier (A) of Sri Lankan first-class cricket. In 30 first-class matches, Hettiwatte has scored 1392 runs at 30.93. In the 2021 Season in the Sri Lankan Major T20 competition. Pramud Hettiwatte was awarded the&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/ThePapareSports/status/1373224958562725893?s=20" target="_blank">“Player of the Tournament”</a>&nbsp;for his all-round exploits. 206 runs @41.20 and 6 wickets @26.33. In 2021, Hettiwatte played in the ECB Bradford Premier for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pudseycongscricket.com/" target="_blank">Pudsey Congs</a>&nbsp;876 runs at 39.82 and 13 wickets at 23.31)

Australian&nbsp;<a href="https://www.standard.net.au/story/5699562/more-firepower-for-beavers-as-opening-bowler-returns/" target="_blank">Mitchell Bowman</a>&nbsp;is a talented seam bowling all-rounder playing for&nbsp;<a href="https://wesleycbc.wixsite.com/beavers" target="_blank">Wesley Yambuk CC</a>&nbsp;in the Warrnambool Cricket Association in Melbourne. In 227 games, Mitch scored 2816 career runs @ 18.77 with a Highest Score of 104. With the ball, he has taken 228 wickets @14.82 with a career-best of 6/13. Mitch will play a major role in our junior section, helping Pramud Hettiwatte and our coaches build on last year’s successful&nbsp;<a href="https://cowdrey.cricket.club/teams/all-stars/">All-Stars</a>&nbsp;program for the 2023 season.

Cowdrey CC Secure Two Overseas For 2023

After missing out on qualifying for finals day last year, our U9 had unfinished business with the county-wide softball competition.

With numbers increasing Cowdrey entered two teams into the Kent Forty5 tournament. Unfortunately, both paired together, we entered the local heats over June and July against Offham, Kings Hill and Castle Hill. At the end of the heats, Cowdrey finished the group in first and second place meaning we would have representation on the Finals Day during September. News broke that our second team had just missed out on the best runner-up, nevertheless, a fantastic achievement.

In preparation for Finals Day, we entered the Tunbridge Wells annual softball festival over the August Bank Holiday weekend for the first time. A mixed squad was taken where we again enjoyed success against Bromley, Tunbridge Wells, Southborough and Linden Park. Four victories led us to the final where we came up against a strong Old Elthamians side and in a hard-fought match we finished just short and proudly took the runner-up spot.

All focus was then moved to the main event. Kent Finals day was held at Upchurch CC on Sunday 18th September. A squad of 10 enjoyed a fun-packed day along with the best 12 softball teams from around Kent as they battled it out to be crowned Kent’s premier U9 side.

In the group stages, we were grouped against Penshurst, Bromley and Catford Cyphers and with 3 victories we topped the group. We then came up against Old Elthamians in the semi-final who we had lost against in the final of the TWCC final a few weeks before. But a fantastic team performance saw us overcome Old Elthamians and march into the final against Bearsted CC.

Strong bowling, excellent catching and fielding had been a feature of the day and the final was no different. We restricted Bearsted to a more than chaseable target. Our batsmen set about chasing it down, knowing that not losing wickets would see the team crowned champions. Every batsman batted sensibly throughout the final and, after seeing out the last over, Cowdrey were crowned Kent U9 2022 champions! An unbelievable achievement by such a talented squad of players.

Under 9s Win The 2022 Kent Forty5

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