Bess picks dodging the drop as his greatest achievement as Sidmouth captain | 'five wins in six games to finish – was such a great effort and so enjoyable'
CONRAD SUTCLIFFE REPORTING
SIDMOUTH’S outgoing skipper Luke Bess believes his greatest achievement second time around was something the team didn’t do!
Bess, who took over from brother Zach at the start of the 2021 season for another turn as captain, did not win a major trophy during his time at the tiller. He previously led the side from 2016-2018.
What Bess did do was preserve Sidmouth’s Premier Division status, which looked in doubt going into the final third of the 2025 summer.
Said Bess: “It’s not a position you want to be in, but with four or five games left we were in a pretty ropey one.
“For a young side to pull together and win the way we did – five wins in six games to finish – was such a great effort and so enjoyable.
“I’ve had a lot of amazing wins with Sidmouth, but the 11-run win at Sanford in a close game that nailed down safety, felt as good as any. Different, but just as good!”
The new first-team skipper at Fortfield Terrace will be Taylor Ingham-Hill, who has just flown back to the UK from a winter playing Grade cricket in Australia.
“It’s time for a change and we need some fresh faces to have a chance at taking the club forward in their way,” said Bess.
“Taylor will have Sam Elstone as his vice-captain. Both have captained in my absence in the past and done a good job.”
Ingham-Hill, who is 23, clearly has a firm idea where he wants Sidmouth to go under his captaincy.
“The aim for the season is to bounce back from a disappointing year last year for the club and to fight for the top spots again,” said Ingham-Hill.
“It is a great opportunity for a young squad to develop in a strong division and build for the future.”
Ingham-Hill will have the services of South African quick bowler Matthew Fourie in the summer ahead, who has worked his way through the Border youth system to the First Class arena.
Fourie is no stranger to UK conditions as he played for Southampton side Sarisbury Athletic in the Southern Premier League in 2025.
George Sims, a batter, has joined from Hertfordshire Premier Division side St Albans. having moved to the area. His average last season was in the high 30s and included an unbeaten century in a tied game against Abbots Langley.
Keeper-batter Dan Powell, who had been playing rugby for Bishops Stortford is back in Sidmouth and available for selection.
Sidmouth hope to get some games out of Scott Barlow and Nick Mansfield at opposite ends of the season.
Robbie Powell has taken over the second-team captaincy from James Docherty, who has an increased workload as the new director or rugby across the road at Sidmouth RFC.
Kiwi Cam Neame is returning from New Zealand for another season with the 2nd XI.
