TEMPLE Cloud Cricket Club (TCCC) have enjoyed a landmark week - both on and off the field - with a historic first for the club’s women’s cricket, and emphatic victories for both the 1st and 2nd XI sides.

On Tuesday evening, TCCC hosted its first-ever women’s training session in the club’s 105-year history. Led by Gloucestershire Cricket coach Charlotte Phillips, the session attracted players of all ages and abilities for an evening focused on building skills, confidence, and teamwork.

“This is a fantastic step for women’s cricket here,” said Phillips. “The enthusiasm was brilliant.”

The club hopes the launch will be the start of a thriving women’s section and is inviting more local women to join future sessions to be part of this exciting new chapter.

Meanwhile, the men’s 1st XI travelled to North Perrott and produced a commanding performance, chasing down a target of 143 in just 28 overs. North Perrott had elected to bat first and got off to a flying start, racing to 20 runs from the first two overs. However, Temple Cloud’s bowlers quickly found their rhythm. George Fox, after conceding 10 runs in his opening over, bounced back superbly to claim 2 for 20 from his 10 overs, including two maidens. Charlie Thompson also kept the pressure on, taking 3 for 32.

Despite their bright start, the hosts were bowled out for 142, unable to form lasting partnerships against a disciplined Temple attack. In reply, Temple Cloud began positively but lost two early wickets. The innings was anchored by the returning opener Cam Raffan, whose unbeaten 70 from 80 balls, featuring 13 boundaries, guided the side home in style. With support from the middle order, the visitors wrapped up the win comfortably and with overs to spare.

Back at the Recreation Ground, the 2nd XI faced Wells & Horrington 2nd XI for the first time. Batting first, the dependable pairing of Haydon and Comer laid a steady foundation before Haydon fell for 14. Hayne joined Comer to add a further 70 for the second wicket, before a brief wobble saw Arbery and Shaikh depart cheaply. Rich Appleyard then joined Comer to produce the partnership of the match — an unbeaten stand of 150. Appleyard finished on 66 not out, while Comer reached a superb 109 not out, setting an imposing total of 264-4.

Wells never settled in reply. Early strikes from Prevett and Appleyard removed the openers, and despite a spirited 43 from Truckle and 19 not out from Benson, the visitors were bowled out for 107. Dan Raisbeck claimed two wickets, while Chris Arbery impressed with 3 for 17.

The week also saw a glimpse of the club’s future, with 14-year-old Max Curtis making headlines in the mid-week match against Midsomer Norton. In just his third senior appearance, Curtis hit an outstanding 25 not out, showing composure beyond his years. With history made, form in both senior sides, and young players emerging, it was a week to remember for Temple Cloud Cricket Club.