Aspenden, Standon & Puckeridge Cricket Club (ASPs) was formed in 2001 through the amalgamation of two historic local sides, Aspenden CC and Standon & Puckeridge CC. The merger was driven by a shared vision to build a stronger, more sustainable club capable of thriving both on and off the pitch. There was understandable anticipation about how the new club would perform, but the inaugural season proved to be a resounding success, laying strong foundations for the future.
In 2002, only in our second season as a united club, ASPs achieved its first major milestone: promotion from the Herts and Essex League Division 5. A vital victory over Bengeo in our penultimate game secured our rise, a fitting reward for the team's hard work and growing team spirit.
Momentum continued to build in 2003 when the ASPs finished the season as champions of Division 4, marking a second successive year of achievement and signaling our intent to become a major force in the local cricketing scene.
After a few years of consolidation, another golden period followed. Back-to-back promotions were secured once again — winning Division 5 in 2010, triumphing in Division 4 in 2011, and earning a further promotion by default in 2012. This sequence of successes saw us enter the highly competitive Herts and Essex League Division 2. A series of new players joined during this time, each becoming invaluable additions to the squad and contributing both on the field and within the club community.
The 2012 season itself was a testament to the team’s fighting spirit. Despite hovering around the relegation zone for much of the year, ASPs pulled off an extraordinary run, winning the final seven matches on the bounce and eventually securing an impressive 5th place finish — a result that far exceeded early expectations.
In 2015, another proud chapter was written when ASPs achieved promotion to Division 1, where we competed strongly until 2019. However, a major reshuffle of the league structure prompted a period of reflection about the club's future. After careful consideration, the decision was made to transition to the Cambs & Hunts Cricket League, a move designed to offer new challenges and fresh opportunities.
Starting in Division 2 South, ASPs adapted quickly to their new surroundings, continuing to build a reputation for competitive cricket and a welcoming club culture. This hard work culminated in yet another promotion at the end of the 2024 season, taking the club into Cambs Division 1 — an exciting new chapter in our ongoing story.
From humble beginnings to a respected presence across two county leagues, ASPCC’s journey has been one of resilience, ambition, and strong community spirit. As we look ahead, we remain committed to growing the club, nurturing new talent, and ensuring that the ASPs continue to thrive for many years to come.
To be continued.............