Earlier this week, sides from the neighbouring London counties of Middlesex, Surrey and Essex, along with a side from the MCC, all took part in the inaugural Walking Cricket London Cup competition - and what better place to play it, than the Indoor Cricket Centre at the spiritual home of the game, Lord’s Cricket Ground.
The competition, hosted by MCC, saw a Middlesex team comprising 17 players, including six women, who have all been participants in the Barnet and Ealing hubs of Middlesex in the Community’s (MITC) ongoing Walking Cricket programme, run in partnership with leisure company, GLL.
The players played a total of six games, and whilst results did not always go in Middlesex’s favour, the games were played in a friendly spirit, and Middlesex did manage to get one over their London rivals Surrey, securing Middlesex's first Walking Cricket win in the process!
MITC’s Walking Cricket programme gives older people a chance to get active, enjoy some exercise, discover a new sport and get to meet and socialise with many people they may not otherwise have the chance to meet. This was no more in evidence than with the fact that the two MITC hubs were coming together for the competition to form one Middlesex side – many of them meeting for the very first time, yet all bonding quickly and chatting about all aspects of life.
For many members of the Middlesex squad, the walking cricket sessions have been their first experience of cricket, either ever, or at the very least since their school days, and the progress they have made in the few months that the sessions have been running has been remarkable.
Middlesex in the Community’s Community Coach, and Walking Cricket Lead Coach, Mikey Thompson said:
“Today was a great day for the Middlesex Walking Cricket team, playing in the London Cup at the Lord’s Indoor School.
“We first ran walking cricket taster sessions 12 months ago and now run a thriving programme with GLL, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team and how they played.
“Well done to all the players involved, and to both Callum Millar and Oscar Powell who have helped coach the sessions. I also want to give a big thanks to Mash Mehter for helping set up the sessions and to Angus Fraser for coming down to support the team on the day.”
Helen Kacouris, one of the Middlesex Walking Cricket players, added:
“What a day! What an experience! What a privilege!
To have played at Lord’s Cricket Ground – well, it doesn’t get any better than that!
“Ok, so it was indoors, but nonetheless, the palpable excitement of this Walking Cricket tournament between Surrey, MCC, Essex and Middlesex was felt by all.
“I’m certain all will agree that the day was hugely enjoyable and uplifting.
“We will all take away our individual memories (scoring a 6 at Lord’s will be mine!) and be in no doubt that we all look forward to future tournaments both in London and further afield.
“Who knows, even an overseas tour could be on the cards! What is certain is that Middlesex are set to take Walking Cricket by storm! Come and join us!”
For information on Middlesex in the Communities Walking Cricket Programme, in partnership with GLL, and information on which hub is located nearest to you, click HERE.
Come and have a go, and you never know, you could get yourself into Middlesex's Walking Cricket team.
