Just when it felt like cricket season had wrapped up, the 2026 indoor campaign kicked off on a blustery Saturday night in October — and the Falkland girls were ready to go!

Facing Ropley in the first of eight matches in a competitive indoor league, Falkland wasted no time making their mark. Ropley chose to bat first, but their innings was quickly disrupted by Lucy M, who struck in just her fourth delivery. A high shot into the netting was smartly caught by Grace, setting the tone for a disciplined fielding performance.

Issy bowled the next over and had the batters in trouble with each delivery, with her Hampshire coach watching on. Then Izzy stepped up and delivered a game changing over, claiming two wickets in two balls, one a beautiful bowl that left the batter and hit the top of off stump.

There was one more wicket to fall, with Daisy executing a nice run out. The Falkland bowling and fielding unit was quality, they gave their opponents nothing in the field, there were no easy runs, and quite a few near misses while attempting run outs. Ropley managed to get to a respectable 56 from their 12 overs.

Falkland had a very strong batting team today. We opened with Daisy and Amelia, both girls looked solid at the crease, but the running was looking a little suspect. It was no surprise that the first wicket fell to a run out, Amelia was well short of the crease and had to depart.

This meant Issy came to the crease. Issy and Daisy then took control, calmly navigating the Ropley bowling attack. They batted with maturity, avoided risks, and reached the target by the sixth over. Daisy finished unbeaten on 14, and Issy unbeaten on 7; a solid partnership that sealed the win.

The team carried forward the spirit and camaraderie from last season, supporting each other throughout the match. Compliments from the Ropley coach (also a Hampshire coach) highlighted the quality of Falkland’s bowling, fielding, and batting.

A huge thank you to all the parents for your enthusiastic support — your cheers make a real difference!

Well done to the Pink Army, the 2026 march has begun.

Match report - Ian Gibson