Congratulations to the four Essex Cricketers who represented England Over 60s in the recent World Cup.
Neil Braithwaite (Oakfield Parkonians CC), Phil Hillson (Benfleet CC), Mel Hussain (Dunmow CC) and Vince Mulholland (Theydon Bois) were crowned joint 2026 IMC Over-60s World Cup champions last week in Mississuga, Canada.
Hussain, the team's vice-captain, was England's joint highest wicket taker, taking nine wickets across the seven matches in which he played. His best bowling figures came against the West Indies with 3-29. Mulholland took three wickets across five games with best bowling figures of 1-22. Hillson was on the end of two wicket taking catches and contributed to a run out against Scotland.
With the bat, Braithwaite made 27 runs which included two fours. Hussain hit a half-century against the USA where he scored 52 off 51 deliveries. This included 5 fours and 2 sixes.
Placed in Group B, England faced India, New Zealand, Scotland, USA, West Indies and Zimbabwe. The team won five out of six matches, only losing to New Zealand by four runs. After coming second in the group, England then went onto face Australia in the semi-finals where they won by five wickets.
The squad then had one final challenge, to beat New Zealand in the final. Unfortunately, bad weather meant that the match was abandoned without facing a ball.
With no result, England and New Zealand were crowned joint 2026 IMC Over-60s World Cup champions.
Congratulations again to Neil, Mel, Phil, Vince and the England Over 60s team!
