Ben Wright has returned home to Derbyshire after a successful stint in the very competitive Bradford League with Farsley, where he was the captain for several summers.
Wright came to Burnside on a working holiday with his wife, Ellie, and was a brilliant inclusion for the premier side during the 2025/26 season, with bat, ball, and off the field. His blistering 62 off 26 balls in the Metro semi-final against Old Boys Collegians was emphatic, contributing to a monumental victory. He also picked up the key wicket of Ryan Wallace in the Grand Final against Sydenham as BWCUCC went on to reclaim the One-Day title in front of a home crowd at Burnside Park.
We caught up with Ben to see how his summer is going back home in Derbyshire.
Once a Lion, always a Lion.
You’re deep into your season now. Where are you playing, what league are you in, and which club are you representing?
I’m playing for Spondon Cricket Club in the Derbyshire Premier League. I grew up in Derbyshire, so it’s nice to be back playing at some familiar grounds and catching up with old friends around the league.
What’s one fun or unique fact about your club so far that outsiders wouldn’t know?Colin Ingram was Spondon’s overseas professional in 2006 and 2007.
What’s the local pub you’ve ended up at most often, and what’s the usual order?
The Boundary Bar at Spondon CC. Usually an Estrella.
What’s the pint you missed most since arriving home? And what was your favourite in NZ?
I miss anything from the chilly bin after a Burnside win.
Who from BWCUCC do you think will have the best summer on the field, and why?
Tom Turner has started brilliantly, as has Callum Hill. I’d love to see Turns really cash in and make a huge score on one of those small Yorkshire grounds.
What is your most useful travel tip since making the long haul across the globe to play for BWC?
Take a book and try to finish it on the flight. Don’t forget an eye mask.
What European (or UK) trip are you looking forward to going on this summer?
Budapest with the Burnside boys.
What’s been the biggest adjustment on and off the field since arriving back in the UK?
It’s been adapting back to wickets that offer a bit more seam movement and games where scores can change quickly.
What’s been the biggest “this is proper UK club cricket” moment for you so far?Getting bowled out for 80 chasing 120 in the first game of the season.
What’s been your best post-match tradition or ritual so far this season?
Sliding into the showers after a win.
What’s your goal for the rest of the summer?
We’re into the last 32 of the National Cup, so it’d be nice to go deep in that competition.