Champions at last — Hesketh Heat win the 2026 Smash Plate

On Sunday 2 August, Dartford's Hesketh Heat met Shoreham & Otford CC Darenth Valiants in the Plate final of The Smash — and served up exactly the kind of nerve-shredder that finals are made for. When the dust settled, just a single run separated the two sides: Dartford's 110 edging Shoreham & Otford's 109. Cue medals, a trophy, and one very happy dressing room.

It was a complete team performance, capped by an exceptional showing when it mattered most.

The ball did the early damage, and Jack Stanford was the pick of the attack — figures of 4-29 that ripped the heart out of the run chase and set the whole thing up.

With the bat, Matt Scott and Suraj were the calm heads under pressure, both compiling 40 to see the Heat home when the nerves were jangling.

And at the wheel throughout? Skipper Cully, marshalling the side brilliantly all tournament to lead them to the club's first Smash title.

After a superb campaign, it was — in the words of the dressing room — "nice to get our hands on one finally." Huge congratulations to every player, coach and supporter who came along. Smash Plate Champions 2026. That has a ring to it. 🏆