Stan Leech Excels as Cricketer and Maidenstone Loanee

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

Stanley Leech, recently loaned to Maidstone United from Dagenham & Redbridge, also became the top run-scorer in this year’s National Village Cup cricket tournament, captaining Linton Village Cricket Club. His success in both football and cricket showcases his athletic versatility and raises expectations for strong performances in the upcoming football season.

Stanley Leech, the newly appointed Maidstone United loanee, has attracted attention for his notable cricketing achievements alongside his football career. The 23-year-old, who previously represented Cambridgeshire in cricket during his youth, emerged as the leading run-scorer in this year’s National Village Cup.

Leech captained Linton Village Cricket Club in the tournament, which attracts over 400 village teams from across Great Britain and concludes with a final at London’s Lord’s Cricket Ground. Entering the competition for the first time, Linton impressed by advancing from their regional Cambridgeshire and Norfolk group before being eliminated in the national round of 32. Over the course of the tournament, Leech compiled 444 runs, the highest individual total recorded.

In recognition of Linton’s community contributions beyond the playing field, Leech was invited to attend the National Village Cup final as a guest of tournament organiser, The Cricketer magazine. While at the final, Leech also took on a role as a guest pundit for Live Sports FM, an online radio station providing coverage of Village Cup matches. His commentary partner for the broadcast, Keith Higgins, is known for his work as Maidenhead United’s commentator.

Reflecting on Linton’s performance and future prospects, Leech expressed optimism about the coming season. “We are definitely looking to hopefully have another deep run next season,” he said, adding that the experience has helped the team gauge the competitive standard needed to win at Lord’s. “We’ve made a few memories in the competition on our run,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Leech’s football career continues to progress. On Friday, Maidstone United announced that Leech had joined the club on a three-month loan from Dagenham & Redbridge, who are among Maidstone’s rivals in the promotion race. Leech previously played as a striker for Newmarket Town before moving up the football ranks.

Leech’s dual commitment to cricket and football highlights his versatility as a sportsman, with his recent achievements underscoring his ability to excel in both disciplines.

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