On Friday 23rd October, players, clubs and volunteers came together to take centre stage at The Grand Brighton, as the Dean Wilson Sussex Cricket League celebrated another memorable season, and the very best of the recreational game at its 2026 Annual Awards Dinner.
369 guests from 40 clubs gathered for the evening, with 76 awards handed out from a total of 128. The evening recognised title-winning teams and individual performances, as well as the volunteers and grounds teams who help keep recreational cricket thriving across the county. Awards were presented across the full breadth of the League, from Division 12 right up to the Premier Division, and for the second year included the Sussex Women’s Cricket League.
Former England cricketer and national selector Geoff Miller OBE joined the celebrations as special guest. After presenting the awards, he entertained the room with amusing stories and reflections from his career.
Roffey 1st XI rounded off a brilliant double-winning campaign by lifting the ECB Premier Division title, while Horsham Women’s 1st XI celebrated winning the Women’s Premier Division.
There was also individual recognition for Freddie Wallis of Haywards Heath CC, who was named Young Player of the Year. Whilst Alex Ellis of Horsham CC collected the Ground of the Year award.
A full list of award winners can be found here.
Gary Stanley, Chair of the Sussex Cricket League said:
"It's always amazing to see the clubs come together to celebrate their own success and that of the league. The combination of a great location, great organisation, great speaker and, above all, great company guarantees a wonderful celebration of recreational cricket in Sussex. This doesn't happen anywhere else!"
The League also thanked headline sponsor Dean Wilson Solicitors LLP for its ongoing support. The firm extended its partnership in 2026 to include the Sussex Women’s Cricket League, helping to support more of the recreational game across the county.
James Chadburn, Managing Partner, Dean Wilson said:
“We’re proud to continue sponsoring the Dean Wilson Sussex Cricket League on what has been an exciting and positive season. Additionally, we’re looking forward to continuing our sponsorship of the Women’s League and we hope to have a fruitful relationship with the Foundation for many years to come.
It is so positive to see such a diverse and supportive community coming out in celebration of the League. Congratulations to all the winners on the night and for all their efforts over the past season.
The evening was not only about trophies. Guests joined in a game of Heads & Tails to win a signed bat from England Men’s white ball captain, Harry Brook, raising money for the Sussex Cricket Foundation.
Dame Shelagh Legrave DL, Chair of Trustees, Sussex Cricket Foundation said:
“It was a privilege to attend my first Sussex Cricket League end of season dinner and witness so many clubs celebrating winning their divisions and individuals achieving best bowling and batting awards. Recreational cricket is thriving in Sussex. A group of talented volunteers run one of the largest cricket leagues in the world and their organisation skills ensure clubs can participate. It was also particularly special to see the growth in the Women’s League.”
Supporters can look back at the 2026 statistics and final league tables here, while a photo gallery from the awards night is available here.
Next up is the Sussex Cricket League’s Annual General Meeting on Monday 23 November 2026 at The County Ground, Hove. Every club must be represented.