Fordhouses CC crowned Premier League champions

There is a new name at the top of the South Staffordshire County League Premier Division for 2026 — and it belongs to Fordhouses Cricket Club.

Fordhouses’ 1st XI were crowned Premier Division champions after week 20, bringing a hugely successful campaign to a memorable conclusion and giving the club another major achievement to celebrate.

The title is reward for a side that has combined quality, consistency and resilience throughout the season. From crucial wins to hard-fought encounters, Fordhouses have continued to collect the points when it mattered, establishing themselves as the team to beat.

One of the standout features of the campaign has been the balance within the side. The batting has produced match-winning totals when required, while the bowling attack has repeatedly found ways to take wickets or defend competitive scores.

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There have also been important individual contributions, with players throughout the squad stepping up at key moments and ensuring that Fordhouses maintained their challenge at the top of the table.

But championship-winning seasons are rarely about one player. They are built on contributions throughout the XI, strong

leadership, preparation during the week and the ability to perform under pressure on Saturdays.

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The next challenge: Birmingham District Cricket League play-off

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For Fordhouses, the celebrations will be relatively short-lived.

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Winning the Premier Division means the 1st XI will now proceed to the Birmingham District Cricket League play-off, with a place in Division 2 next season at stake.

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It is a particularly significant moment for the club. Fordhouses were last competing in the Birmingham District Cricket League in 2018, meaning the upcoming play-off represents a return to a competition the club has been away from for several years.

Now, after rebuilding and establishing themselves as Premier Division champions, Fordhouses have the opportunity to take another major step forward.

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The play-off will provide a completely different challenge, bringing the champions up against opposition from outside the South Staffordshire County League. With Division 2 on the line, every run, wicket and moment of pressure will carry even greater importance.

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For the players and coaching staff, the message is clear: the title may have been won, but the season isn't finished yet

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A successful play-off would see Fordhouses return to the Birmingham District Cricket League in style and give the club the chance to begin next season in Division 2.

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From Premier Division champions to potential BDCL promotion candidates, it has already been a remarkable journey.

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Last in the BDCL in 2018. Premier Division champions in 2026. Now, Division 2 is within reach.

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The next chapter awaits.

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