Alex Richards, who captained RPCC for 4 seasons from 2006 to 2009, has been selected for England’s Over 50s World Cup squad. The World Cup takes place in Colombo, Sri Lanka from Feb. 9th to Feb 23rd 2025.

Alex played for Priory from 2004 to 2011 and was a key opening bat for the club in that period when 4 Premier league titles were won. Back to back titles were achieved under his captaincy in 2007 and 2008. He scored 2494 runs for the club at an average of 32.4 with a top score of 160*. This knock was a club record until Richie Oliver beat it at Sunbury two years ago.

The World Cup will be competed for by 14 countries with two pools of 7 sides. On paper England are in the weakest pool alongside Zimbabwe, New Zealand, UAE, USA, Sri Lanka and Namibia.

Alex represents Essex along with Giles Ecclestone, brother of Priory legend Simon. The only Surrey player in the squad is Jon Wileman, an old adversary from Wimbledon.

The picture of Alex is a few years old now but he must be leading a healthy life as when he was at the club this last summer he looks little different.

Good luck Alex and England. Make a great holiday wouldn’t it?