A historic century from Davin Dill and a masterclass from Ricardo Brangman headlined an explosive opening day of the 2026 cricket season at Somerset Cricket Club.
The Champion of Champions double-header delivered immediate drama as St. David’s Cricket Club were crowned Premier Division champions, while Southampton Rangers secured the First Division silverware in a high-scoring curtain-raiser.
Champion of Champions 1st Division
Southampton Rangers 222 PHC 0/0
The day began with a milestone performance in the First Division clash between Southampton Rangers and PHC. Southampton Rangers posted a formidable 222 for 9, led by a clinical 65 not out from Nacori Smith. Smith’s 49-ball stay included seven boundaries and a six, setting a daunting task for the challengers.
The response from PHC was defined by a truly historic moment. Davin Dill became the first player of the 2026 season to reach triple figures, smashing a spectacular 103 not out from just 54 deliveries. His century, which included eight fours and eight sixes, kept PHC in the hunt, supported by a rapid 52 from Charles Trott.
Despite the heroics from Dill and Trott, PHC were unable to keep up with the required rate, eventually falling 50 runs short at 172 for 5. Donté Brangman was the pick of the Rangers' bowlers, returning remarkably economical figures of 2 for 7 to ensure the trophy stayed with the Southampton side.
Champion of Champions Premier
St. George's Cricket Club 184/7 St. David's Cricket Club 188/2
St. David’s Cricket Club sent a clear message to the rest of the league with a dominant eight-wicket victory over rivals St. George’s.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, St. George’s posted a competitive 184 for 7, anchored by a fiery 69 from Jonte Smith. Smith’s 41-ball knock, featuring 10 fours and two sixes, provided a solid foundation, while Brian Hall led the St. David's attack with a disciplined 2 for 23.
However, the chase was a one-sided affair. Ricardo Brangman produced a sensational, unbeaten 90 off just 40 balls, dismantling the St. George’s bowling with eight towering sixes. He was ably supported by Isaiah O'Brien, who struck a composed 68 not out. The pair steered St. David’s to 188 for 2, reaching the target with overs to spare and reclaiming the trophy in emphatic fashion.
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