Outgoing England Over-70s skipper John Evans has reflected on an “amazing” four years with the national side after bringing his tenure to a close.
Evans’ journey began in 2022 with a game against Wales, when manager Chris Lowe asked him to become vice-captain to Chris Swadkin for the Silver Ashes tour of Australia in February 2023.
Chris was an excellent role model, but after experiencing some health issues during the tour, Evans had plenty of opportunity to gain experience leading the side.
England came from behind to win the Silver Ashes 2-1, with Derek Towe emerging as the star man of the tour.
Swadkin subsequently handed the captaincy to Evans for the home series, with Towe becoming his vice-captain.
Australia returned in 2023 and England won the series 2-0, with an exciting draw in the third game.
Then came 2024 and the first-ever Over-70s World Cup, held in England.
Evans described the tournament as a great success both as an event and for the England team.
After losing to Australia in the pool stage, England put matters right in the final at the beautiful Wormsley Park, defeating the Australians to become the inaugural World Cup champions.
The 2026 season brought another trip to Australia for the Silver Ashes, with England completing a 3-0 series victory before heading to New Zealand to defend their World Cup title.
Australia once again proved their quality by defeating England in the pool stage, but Evans’ side responded in the same fashion as two years earlier.
They reached the final at the stunning Hagley Park Oval and once again triumphed in a tight contest against Australia to lift the trophy.
A 3-0 series victory against New Zealand, followed by a game against an England Over-65s team, brought Evans’ tenure to an end.
And the outgoing skipper believes it was the right time to hand over the baton.
“It has been an amazing four years for me involved in the England Over-70s squad,” said Evans – the Frocester cricket stalwart.
“So, what an honour and privilege it has been.
“I wish my successor the same luck and enjoyment that I’ve had.”
Evans paid tribute to those who had helped make his time with England so special, including the management team of Chris Lowe, Chris Swadkin and Charles Bury.
“They have been amazing,” he said.
“Derek Towe, my superb vice-captain, and all the brilliant players over the four years of my involvement have also played a huge part.
“Finally, my wife Jude for her support and all the other ladies who have also been a great team.
“Thank you, everyone.
“I will continue to support in whatever capacity as long as I am able.”
Evans leaves the captaincy having helped England win two World Cups and two Silver Ashes series, while also overseeing a memorable series victory against New Zealand.
Four years, countless matches and some remarkable memories later, he can look back on a hugely successful chapter in England Over-70s cricket.
