By Malcolm Page
The future of girls’ cricket was on full display at Lindfield Common last month, as a friendly Lindfield Girls Under-12s team welcomed Haywards Heath Under-12s for a friendly end-of-season softball match.
Played in glorious spirit, the match showcased everything that makes junior cricket so enjoyable. Both teams played with determination, with players encouraging one another throughout, and celebrating every wicket with infectious enthusiasm – complete with energetic team star jumps that brought smiles to players and spectators.
While the result was secondary, the afternoon highlighted the fantastic progress being made in girls’ cricket across the local area. The growth in participation has been driven by the hugely successful ECB All Stars Cricket programme, with many of the girls taking their first steps into the game through the summer initiative, before developing their skills in club cricket.
The match was a wonderful example of friendship, teamwork and sportsmanship, with players from both clubs enjoying the opportunity to compete in a fun and supportive environment while building lasting connections through the game.
Lindfield Cricket Club is keen to continue growing opportunities for girls to play cricket and hopes to welcome many more young players in the coming seasons. Anyone interested in finding out more about girls’ cricket at the club is encouraged to get in touch with Julie Morgan on morganjulie@talktalk.net or Bob Hopkins on bobvivienne.hopkins@btopenworld.com, who will be delighted to provide further information about training sessions and how to get involved.
With enthusiasm, energy and plenty of smiles on show throughout the afternoon, the future of girls’ cricket in the local community looks brighter than ever.