Essex League Squash 2025/26: Premier Division Preview

The return of the rain and darker evenings can only mean one thing: squash season is back. The Essex League is gearing up for another year of high-quality action, and the 2025/26 campaign brings a fresh look to the Premier Division and Essex Cup.

This year, the Premier Division is slimmed down to just eight teams, featuring some of the best players in the county and beyond. The new format splits the season into two phases. In phase one, every team plays each other twice (home and away), using the traditional best-of-five, first-to-eleven format. Phase two raises the stakes: the league divides into the top four (“Super 4”) chasing the title, and the bottom four (“Survival 4”) fighting to avoid relegation. All matches will now be played on Monday nights, offering regularity for players and fans alike.

Maldon enter as reigning champions, though they may be without talisman Jon Matthews for much of the season. Taking over at string one is Mark McEwen, capped by England at Over 35s earlier this year, a formidable replacement who will test anyone. The wily Paul Wallace, fresh from Essex’s national intercounties triumph, adds experience and resilience. Maldon’s challenge will be depth: if their squad holds strong, back-to-back titles are firmly within reach.

One to watch: Mark McEwen – ruthless at string one, and a huge factor in Maldon’s title defence.

Kingswood arrive with momentum after winning the Summer League, and they look hungry to dethrone Maldon. Michael Aley, part of Essex’s Over 35s national-winning side, combines with Dylan Smithson to form a powerful top two. Behind them, the return of Tony Savage from long-term injury, plus the reliable Mark Lafferty and Cliff Bennett, gives the team real depth. With strength across the order, Kingswood look ready to mount a serious title charge.

One to watch: Dylan Smithson – the perfect foil for Aley and capable of big scalps in tight matches.

Woodford Wells are out to disrupt Maldon and Kingswood’s dominance. Captain Gareth Naidoo remains one of Essex’s finest, finishing runner-up at the Essex Closed earlier this year. At string one, Rob Thirst brings pedigree, with a highest world ranking of 426 and proven Surrey Cup experience. And don’t overlook Stuart Cowie, a Commonwealth Games bronze medallist, slotting in at string five. Depth and danger run throughout this team.

One to watch: Rob Thirst – with top-level pedigree, he could be the best string one in the league.

Hamptons 1 are strong contenders for the Super 4, provided availability doesn’t derail them. The Chelmsford side boasts real quality at the top, with Rory Pennell (former WR126) and Elliot Selby (former WR195). Captain Dan Burns leads a squad that also includes veteran Dave Smith and England Masters international Nigel Bacon, now fit again after injury. If they can field their best regularly, Hamptons 1 can trouble anyone.

One to watch: Dave Smith – the veteran’s experience and composure could be the glue that holds Hamptons 1 together in crunch ties.

Lexden blend youth and experience, and their campaign could hinge on player availability. Norfolk and England Masters international Neil Cross is a reliable force, while Keiran Hillman and junior talent Will Burton add depth. The big question is the availability of Essex Closed champion Michael Tallentire, who may spend much of the season away studying. If Lexden’s supporting cast step up, they will be pushing hard for the Super 4.

One to watch: Will Burton – the teenager’s rise could be decisive in tight mid-order battles.

Gidea Park impressed in the Summer League and could surprise plenty this season. Scotland Masters international Paul Cousins will feature high in the order, supported by brothers Ahmed and Omar Mossad. Captain Sean Chestnutt adds leadership and grit to a side that should prove a tricky test for established Premier Division teams.

One to watch: Paul Cousins – experienced, reliable, and capable of leading from the front.

Old Brentwood face another tough season. At the top, Harry Burr is a fighter who refuses to make life easy for opponents, while Oren Goddard continues his steady rise as a reliable number two. Wins may be hard to come by, but Old Brentwood are resilient and will not roll over.

One to watch: Harry Burr – a battler at string one who thrives in long, grinding matches.

Hamptons 2 step up after promotion from the East Division, facing a steep learning curve in their Premier debut. At just 17, Louis Brown is already capable of upsetting seasoned opponents and will lead the line with confidence. Lower down, experience comes in the form of Mark Shildrake, a seasoned Essex League and intercounty campaigner. Survival may be their main target, but they have the tools to cause the odd shock.

One to watch: Louis Brown – fearless at just 17, he could spring some of the season’s biggest upsets.

Premier Division Prediction 2025/26