Town Council Congratulates Hailsham Roses on Fifth Consecutive Sussex Slam Title

The Town Council is congratulating Hailsham Cricket Club’s Women’s Roses on an outstanding achievement after they were crowned Sussex Slam champions for a remarkable fifth consecutive year.

The Roses secured the Sussex Slam 2026 title on Monday, defeating Horsham by a comprehensive 37-run margin in the final to retain their championship crown.

Arriving at Finals Day determined to produce another strong performance, the Hailsham side delivered a composed and professional display under pressure to once again finish the competition as champions.

The victory marks an incredible five Sussex Slam titles in five consecutive years, underlining the team’s remarkable consistency and continued development.

For Hailsham Town Council, the achievement is another opportunity to celebrate the growing success of women’s and girls’ sport across the town as part of its ongoing campaign to highlight local teams, athletes, coaches, volunteers and sporting facilities.

Based at Western Road Recreation Ground, the Women’s Roses have established themselves as one of the leading women’s cricket sides in the region. The team currently competes at the highest regional level in the Sussex Women’s Premier League, following a series of historic promotions achieved through strong performances in the divisions.

The Roses have also become a formidable force in the Sussex Slam, a fast-paced T20 competition featuring leading clubs from across the region, with this year’s victory adding another championship to an already impressive record.

Their success is further reflected in the team’s attacking style of cricket, including a remarkable club-record score of 346 runs in a single 40-over innings.

“What an incredible achievement for the Hailsham Roses – five Sussex Slam titles in a row is something the whole town can be immensely proud of,” said Cllr Dave Chapman, Chair of the Town Council’s Assets Management Committee. “To win a championship once requires talent, hard work and determination, but to retain it year after year demonstrates an extraordinary level of consistency, commitment and team spirit. The Roses should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”

“They are fantastic ambassadors for Hailsham and a wonderful example of what can be achieved through grassroots sport. Their success shows young women and girls across our town that there are opportunities to compete, develop their skills and aim high.”

“Our women’s and girls’ sport campaign is all about celebrating achievements such as this and recognising the people behind them. I would like to congratulate every member of the Roses squad, as well as their coaches, volunteers, families and supporters, who all play an important role in the team’s success.”

Town Mayor Cllr Chris Bryant added: “Five consecutive Sussex Slam titles is an outstanding accomplishment and a testament to the quality and dedication within Hailsham Cricket Club’s Women’s Roses.”

“The Town Council is proud to support the facilities that enable local clubs such as Hailsham Cricket Club to train, compete and develop.

“The Roses’ achievements also demonstrate the importance of creating opportunities for women and girls to participate in sport at every level. Success at the highest regional level can inspire others to pick up a bat, join a team and discover the physical, social and wellbeing benefits that being involved in sport can bring.”

“We are delighted to celebrate the Roses as part of our wider campaign highlighting women’s and girls’ sport in Hailsham, and we congratulate the whole club on this fantastic achievement.”

Rob Wilkinson, Director of Cricket at Hailsham Cricket Club, said: “The Roses continue to develop and improve year on year, and winning the Sussex Slam for a fifth consecutive time is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved with the team.”

“The result is a reflection of the players’ hard work and commitment, but also the quality coaching, leadership and support around them. To consistently perform at this level requires a huge amount of effort both on and off the pitch.”

“We are particularly proud of the environment we are creating at Hailsham Cricket Club, where players can develop, enjoy their cricket and challenge themselves to reach their full potential. The continued support of Hailsham Town Council and access to excellent facilities such as Western Road Recreation Ground are an important part of that.”

“Women’s cricket continues to grow, and it is fantastic to see the Roses playing their part in that growth while representing Hailsham at the highest level. We are incredibly proud of the team and look forward to seeing what they can achieve next.”

Hailsham Cricket Club welcomes enquiries from anyone interested in getting involved with the club.

Anyone wishing to find out more about Hailsham Cricket Club or opportunities to play should contact Rob Wilkinson on 07980 146841 or email hailshamcc@outlook.com.

Hailsham Town Council will continue its campaign by highlighting local women’s and girls’ teams, clubs and sporting organisations and celebrating the important contribution they make to community life in Hailsham.