UOEMCC x UOELCC Spotlight Fixture (Ben Wells Cup 2024)

The Cricket Spotlight fixture is two annual T20 cricket matches between the University of Exeter Men and the University of Oxford Men and the University of Exeter Women and Devon Women. The teams compete for the Ben Wells Cup and Ben Wells Shield. These are named in honour of Ben Wells, a former professional cricketer and student at the University of Exeter who tragically retired from cricket at 23 due to a heart condition. Despite abruptly halting his promising career, Ben Wells's legacy will shine through this annual T20 showdown between two of the country's most esteemed universities. The match is a testament to Wellsy's unwavering love for the game and deep ties with the University of Exeter. This event is sponsored by Rathbones. It kicks off at 11:30 a.m. on May 31st with the Ladies' match, followed by the men's at 3:30 p.m. Those attending must collect their physical wristbands from the forum on the 23rd, 24th, and 25th before the matches commence. The event is not just about cricket; it's about supporting two charities, the Ruth Strauss Foundation and the Barnaby Webber Foundation, that hold a special place in the hearts of many of our players. Each ticket contributes £2 to these causes. The Ruth Strauss Foundation raises awareness and funds for families facing the death of a parent from lung cancer, while the Barnaby Webber Foundation provides support and inclusion for young people aged 18 and under who are facing life challenges (be it physical, mental, emotional or social). More than just a cricketing spectacle, the Cricket Spotlight is one of the best days of the university summer. The afterparty will be held in the Redbull truck onsite with various DJs, and Eat the Bird will provide food for the day for the spectators. With, of course, the bars onsight and Pimms all day for the spectators.