Sussex Cricket Foundation Releases 2025 Impact Report

The Sussex Cricket Foundation today proudly launches its 2025 Impact Report, celebrating another outstanding year for recreational cricket across the county and showcasing the Foundation’s continued growth, influence, and life-changing community impact. 

Widely regarded by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and by local and national partners as a leading force in grassroots and community cricket, the Sussex Cricket Foundation enters 2026 with real momentum, ambition, and transformational plans for the future. 

A Year of Achievement and Inspiration 

In 2025, the Foundation strengthened the health and reach of recreational cricket throughout Sussex, with standout progress across participation, community programmes, and player development. 

Among many achievements, the year was especially notable for the Sussex Disability Cricket pathway, which continues to set national standards and inspire players of all ages and abilities. 

Sussex VI Sharks Complete Historic ‘Double’ 

One of the defining moments of the year came as the Sussex VI Sharks secured a remarkable ‘Double’, triumphing in both their league campaign and the BCEW Cup. Their dramatic Cup Final victory over Northamptonshire at The 1st Central County Ground will live long in the memory for players, families, and supporters alike. 

D40 Success and England Recognition 

Sussex’s D40 squads also enjoyed a year of exceptional achievement, with several players continuing their progression into elite disability cricket. 

• Liam O’Brien and Alfie Pyle both starred in England’s historic pan-disability series victory over India, playing pivotal roles throughout. 

• The year concluded with Liam O’Brien, Alfie Pyle, and rising young spinner Jake Vosloo all selected for England’s 2026 tour of India—a testament to the strength of the Sussex pathway and the Foundation’s long-term investment in player development. 

Reflecting on the year, Community Cricket Director, Gary Wallis-Tayler said: 

“The Foundation is about creating a passion for cricket, changing lives, and helping people fulfil their ambitions. The recent achievements of our disability squads are not just sporting successes; they reflect our belief in cricket as a force for opportunity, success, and transformation. We are all extremely excited for the year ahead and have many exciting plans to continue growing the game and ensuring we remain as one of the leading Foundations across the Country”

Looking Ahead:  

Breaking Boundaries in 2026 

As the Foundation turns its attention to 2026, its major strategic priority is the launch of Breaking Boundaries, a groundbreaking new secondary school cricket programme designed to revolutionise state school cricket in Sussex. 

With significant investment already secured, the initiative will: 

• Establish 8 state school cricket hubs over the next four years 

• Provide dedicated curriculum-time coaching in all participating schools 

• Deliver extra-curricular cricket sessions and talent development opportunities
• A new representative cricket competition structure will be created

• Offer funding for facilities, equipment, kit, and teacher training 

• Strengthen pathways between schools and local cricket clubs, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability of the recreational game 

• Deepen the Foundation’s long-standing partnership with the Brighton Aldridge Community Academy, now entering its 10th year 

Breaking Boundaries represents one of the most ambitious state school cricket programmes in the country and reflects the Foundation’s commitment to widening access, breaking down barriers, and giving every young person the chance to experience cricket’s benefits on and off the field. 

The full report can be read below or give our video a watch.

About the Sussex Cricket Foundation 

The Sussex Cricket Foundation is the charitable arm of Sussex Cricket, dedicated to using the power of cricket to inspire, educate, and improve lives across communities in Sussex. Through programmes that support participation, wellbeing, equality of opportunity, and community cohesion, the Foundation works to ensure that cricket is a game for everyone. 

For further information, please contact: Steve Pickup steve.pickup@sussexcricket.co.uk