Last season was a huge success for our Women's 1st XI, as they competed at the top end of the Essex Women's Premier League. The side were led by Zoe Quested, who returned to her childhood club after a number of years along Hall Lane at Harold Wood. Zoe will be continuing as skipper this season and we catch up with her ahead of the new campaign.

Last season was a huge success. What were your memories from the 2024 summer?
I think the arrival of Suni last season was one of the most amazing memories. Her arrival gave the younger girls the time to perform at their own pace and keep up with the new level of cricket in the higher division. A perfect example was Keya's (Shah) six wickets in that game near the end of the season and watching how someone became so consistent at such a young age gave me such a thrill.

For me personally the Benefit Match was a huge highlight. Having watched these games since I was eight years old and played in the minis festivals during the innings breaks, I never believed Upminster would have a women's team and have the side so integrated into the club all those years ago, so it was a bit of a dream come true for me and my family.

Does the success of last year set higher expectations and challenges for this season?
I think we were a little closer to actually winning the title last year than we expected, but we certainly relied on Suni with the bat. However, her not coming back this season gives the opportunity for girls that have developed over the winter and last season to step up and enjoy the games more and have the ability to take their time. I think it will also be easier to captain the squad this year as I am more aware of what my players can do and what areas of the game they thrive.

What are you looking forward to this season?
I am looking forward to the new T10 competition this season (more details to follow). I think it will be a wonderful couple of days and we can have a great time.

With no outdoor cricket over the winter what have you done to fill your time?
I've spent most of the time running the kids to all their clubs and activities and been on Hen Parties and eating whatever I want to!! I have to admit this will be the most unfit I have ever been going into a cricket season!! I certainly haven't picked up a bat or ball since the Benefit Match!!

How important will the development of our younger players be this season as the women's section continues to grow and move forward?
This season is pivotal for the development of our sides, with a number of the current women's sides heading into exams and university over the next few years. We really want to ensure the team is well balanced with experience and competitiveness but while also giving the younger girls the opportunity to take their chances and gain some experience. Myself and Ange (Green, 2nd XI captain) always try to balance the girls out and give them all an opportunity to play in the 1st team as some players just really thrive playing at the top level.