2025 Annual-report

19 CRICKET REPORT the fact he hit the winning runs in both victories. Opportunities to recruit overseas wicketkeepers are rare, and with a first-class average near 50, Kyle’s return ensures continuity within our title-winning core. Ishan Kishan also made a brief but valuable impact, bringing both quality and enthusiasm to the Championship. It was especially pleasing to see an Indian player not just want to come and play in the Championship, but also to put in some strong perfor- mances in English conditions. While overseas stars added sparkle, it was deeply satisfying to see the heart of our side come from within. Alongside Brett, Academy graduates Lyndon James, Liam Patterson- White, Farhan Ahmed, and Freddie McCann all played vital roles. For them, and for our supporters, for whom seeing local players win the Championship is truly special, this meant everything. I must also congratulate Josh on his deserved England Ashes call-up, and Ben Duckett, who, despite national commitments keeping him away from us for most of the summer, continues to shine as one of the best all-format openers in world cricket. Hosting Zimbabwe for their first Test at Trent Bridge in 25 years was another highlight, as was our first women’s IT20, featuring three players fromThe Blaze. Turning to domesticT20 cricket, we took significant steps forward as our new-look team continues to evolve. After last year’s disappointment, finishing just one win from the knock- out stages was a strong recovery. Rebuilding this side has always felt a longer-term challenge, as experience counts for a great deal in short- format cricket. This year, we added Daniel Sams and Moises Henriques for experience, and ahead of 2026, we welcome Benny Howell and George Linde. At the same time, giving opportu- nities to Farhan, Liam and Freddie McCann in the Blast remains vital, and I’ve been impressed with how each of them have grasped their chances. Daniel was our leading wicket-taker, narrowly ahead of Liam, Matt Montgomery, and Dillon Pennington. Tom Moores also deserves credit for his bold decision to focus solely on white-ball cricket, and it paid off, with an excellent Blast campaign leading to global opportunities this winter. He even began the One-Day Cup before earning a call-up for The Hundred, underlining the unpredictable nature of the modern 50-over game. Ten of our players received contracts inThe Hundred, and although they were opportunities we wholeheart- edly supported, they did force us to adapt rapidly. Despite those challenges, there were strong performances.With Calvin Harrison, Liam and Farhan called up toThe Hundred, Joe Pocklington often led the spin attack alone, taking 11 wickets and finishing second only to Rob Lord. It was a reward for perseverance, and his new long-term deal gives him the chance to compete for a regular first-team place. “IN T20 CRICKET, WE TOOK SIGNIFICANT STEPS FORWARD AS OUR NEW- LOOK TEAM CONTINUES TO EVOLVE.” Mick Newell