Horley cricketers starting to get a controlled taste of beloved sport

The Horley Row-based club usually open the outdoor season with training and friendly matches starting in mid-April but this has understandably been delayed due to Covid 19 and social distancing.

The club has been in regular contact with officials from Surrey cricket regarding guidelines issued by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and last week players were allowed to return for restricted net practice and small group training managed by the club coach.

Horley’s two Saturday league teams – the 1st XI and 2nd XI – both won promotion at the end of last season to the Premier divisions of the Surrey County League, so this season should have brought exciting new challenges. The virus put all that on hold, but the majority of cricket members have generously chosen to support their club by renewing annual membership despite, at this time, there being no assurance of returning to full bore cricket this season.

The 1st team captain, Charlie Robins, commented: “We are in the fortunate position of having a very young and athletic squad of players, tipped with some extremely good players with a wealth of experience. A good proportion of our players have come up through our colts’ section. We had great expectations for this season. If we get promoted from where we are now, we will take a big step up into the Surrey Championship League.”

The ECB has proposed a five-stage plan working towards a full return to matches and cricket is currently at stage three, which allows for small group training of up to six people, respecting social distancing. Stage four is adapted game play, probably with reduced team numbers, special social distancing and hygiene measures.

Some of the boys and girls in Horley’s colts’ section are now enjoying restricted and controlled net practice and small group training under the supervision of the club’s head coach. The youngsters are chomping at the bit for safe exercise, combined with cricket fun

Horley’s clubhouse and bar is still closed due to Covid 19 restrictions, the management team are following government advice and will announce the re-opening when guidelines allow.

Horley CC offers cricket for all: boys and girls from under-8s to under-17s; ladies’ cricket; competitive Saturday and Sunday league cricket and the famous Sunday Strollers social side.

For more information on your local cricket club, contact Nick Waddington, cricket club captain 07860259547 or email [email protected]

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