After a week of record-breaking temperatures, there was a collective sense of relief as Sunday 28 June dawned cooler, with welcome cloud cover settling over Witherden Field at the Doggart. The conditions could not have been better for the much-anticipated Wickets & Wonders 2026, a highlight of the College calendar that brings together families, friends, Old Stortfordians and the wider College community to celebrate the end of the academic year and the beginning of summer.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was one of excitement and anticipation. While cricket lovers settled in for the latest chapter of the Hudson Cup, children made a beeline for the incredible array of activities on offer. With everything from the giant air pillow, mega assault course and bungee trampolines to giant football darts, crazy golf, face painting and garden games, there was no shortage of entertainment. Meanwhile, younger visitors delighted in the dedicated under-5s mini inflatable zone, ensuring smiles across every age group.

Alongside the action, families enjoyed complimentary afternoon tea treats and refreshments, while the ever-popular ice cream van provided the perfect summer indulgence. The event once again demonstrated why Wickets & Wonders has become such a cherished occasion, offering the ideal opportunity to relax, reconnect and enjoy the beautiful College surroundings.

At the heart of the afternoon was the eagerly awaited Hudson Cup T20 match, as the Old Stortfordians, led by captain Jake Curtis (NH, HH, 18-25), took on a formidable College XI. The challenge was set as the OS team went into bat, with the prestigious trophy hanging in the balance and the College eager to reclaim the title from the victorious 2025 OS side.

2026 OS Cricket Team

Jake Curtis (NH, HH, 18-25) - Captain

Kyle Henchie (NH, SUH, 06-17)

Freddie Hickey (WH, SUH, 17-24)

Thomas Howes (GH, RH, 17-23)

Liam Mays (GH, 12-16, RH, 21-23)

Jake Morris (WH, CH, 10-19)

James Pickup (PP, WH, HH, 10-24)

Josh Pilcher (PP, NH, HH, 06-20)

Joe Radley (NH, SUH, 09-20)

Jayden Roy (GH, RH, 17-25)

James Tasker (MJH, SUH, 11-21)

John Tasker (MJH, SUH, 11-20)

What followed was a thrilling contest packed with quality cricket, impressive performances and plenty of boundary-hitting entertainment. Spectators were treated to top-flight T20 cricket, with both teams displaying outstanding skill, determination and sportsmanship throughout.

In the end, the College XI emerged victorious, defeating the Old Stortfordians by eight wickets to lift the Hudson Cup 2026 and reclaim the trophy in style.

Congratulations go to all involved, particularly:

Hudson Cup 2026 Winners: Bishop’s Stortford College

College Captain: Cameron K

College Man of the Match: R J’ai G.

OS Captain: Jake Curtis (NH, HH, 18-25)

OS Man of the Match: Thomas Howes (GH, RH, 17-23)

Special thanks also go to:

Umpire: Matt Drury

Scorers: Ollie Plummer and Matt Bendin

College Team Manager: Dave Hughes

OS Team Manager: Paul Bashford

The trophy presentations were made by OS Committee member John Rycroft (RPH, 64–69) and Garry Hudson (Head of Modern Languages, 1973–2013). It was especially fitting that Garry, whose enduring contribution to College life inspired the naming of the Hudson Cup, was on hand to present the trophies.

The College extends its sincere thanks to both cricket teams for delivering such an exceptional match and especially to Jake Curtis for captaining the Old Stortfordians with enthusiasm and commitment. The standard of cricket on display was outstanding and provided a superb showcase for the spirit of competition that continues to connect generations of Stortfordians.

Most importantly, thank you to all members of the College community who joined us and embraced everything that Wickets & Wonders 2026 had to offer. From spectacular cricket and bouncing inflatables to afternoon tea, ice creams and shared memories, it was a joyful celebration of community, friendship and summer fun.

Here's to another unforgettable Wickets & Wonders and to many more in the years ahead.

A fabulous full event gallery is available to view by registering for, or logging into, your online portal profile. The collection features some outstanding images that beautifully capture the essence and spirit of this wonderful day.