The ECB has revealed a record 1,200 cricket clubs have hosted a Club Open Day, supported by Waitrose, so far this summer. The nationwide initiative, now in its third year, sees clubs open their pavilion doors to the local community, putting on taster sessions to get them into cricket.
ECB Chief Executive Tom Harrison said: Club Open Days has encouraged more people to get involved in the sport - whether that's by playing, coaching, umpiring, volunteering - or even being a social member of your local club.
England cricketers Moeen Ali, Liam Plunkett, Katherine Brunt and former international Paul Collingwood supported the initiative by visiting Elworth Cricket Club in Sandbach recently. The Cheshire club won a prize draw for hosting an event earlier in the summer and gained a comprehensive coaching takeover -
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Harrison added: It's vital we capitalise on the wider interest in the game generated by this memorable Investec Ashes summer. All clubs should be congratulated for getting behind this initiative with such enthusiasm.
Clubs are continuing to host Open Days throughout September, with information available at
www.ecb.co.uk/clubopendays
Waitrose backing clubs
England team sponsor Waitrose continues to support Club Open Days, and has given £100 of food and drink to each club participating to help raise valuable funds from the day.
Paul Hogan, Manager, Local Marketing, Customer Events & Sponsorship said, It's fantastic to see so many clubs getting involved with Open Days. By the end of the summer, we'll have supported 1250 events up and down the country, donating food and drink for cricket teas. Many of our partners have been volunteering to help too. And this year, we have also invited clubs into our shops to promote their Open Days, with the aim they reach as many people in their community as possible.
The passion these clubs have to protect their legacy is outstanding and with the England men's team winning back The Ashes, this should also inspire more people of all ages to get involved with the game.