Thompson (pictured) still committed to Sandford after passing captaincy to Adam Small | 'It’s been a privilege to lead. Now I’m excited to contribute in a different way'
By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE
SANDFORD’S last title-winning skipper Jackson Thompson has pledged his future to the club wherever needed after handing over the 1st XI captaincy to Adam Small for the season ahead.
Thompson was Sandford’s Premier Division-winning captain in 2023, when they finished 36 points clear of what was then Bradninch CC to claim the title. It was his first season at the helm after taking over from Richard Foan.
Although personal circumstances mean Thompson’s availability may be hindered in the season ahead, he will play whenever he can and wherever he is needed.
“I’m still very much part of Sandford,” said Thompson. “I’ll be available for selection across any of the four teams, and I’m looking forward to getting back amongst the lads purely as a player again.
“It’s been a privilege to lead. Now I’m excited to contribute in a different way.
“Adam has my full backing. He’s earned the opportunity and I’ll support him however I can.”
Thompson had little difficulty picking the 2023 Premier title win as the highlight of his three-year term, but stressed there was more to it than carting off the silverware.
“Winning the Premier Division will always stand out,” said Thompson. “What’s meant just as much was watching young players grow into men and into their roles within the club.
“Seeing the development of Lawrence Walker, Adam Small, Matt Jeacock and James Theedom has been brilliant. Then you look at the next wave, Joe Hopkins, Ben Handley, Ollie Knight and Jonny Handley, and you can see the future is in good hands.”
Thompson said it was important to recognise the role played by overseas professionals Diskhu Negi and Aryan Lakra developing the club’s young talent.
“Diskhu brought quality and presence – and Aryan Lakra has been outstanding for us,” said Thompson. “Players like that lift standards across the whole group.”
Negi – 746 league runs, 43 league wickets – was hugely influential in the title-winning side. Lakra’s two seasons have yielded more than 1,00 league runs and 64 scalps.
Thompson said leading Sandford had been an honour, helped by a strong support team.
“You never lead alone and I’ve been fortunate to have strong people around me who made the job lighter and the journey better,” said Thompson.
“Behind the scenes there are people who make everything possible. The selection committee, other captains, volunteers and members all carry the club forward week after week.
“I want to personally thank Richard Coupe, Nigel Ashplant, Chris Theedom, Phil Matten, Jon James, Brian Leach and Jamie Palmer along with the wider committee. They’ve supported me consistently and made leading the side far easier off the pitch.
“Sandford is a special club. There’s history here, there’s pride here and there’s serious potential still to come.
“If I’ve played a small part in helping create that environment then I’m proud of that.”
