Two cricket clubs are merging in the coming season to create a much larger club based at Hurst.
It will also secure the future of cricket in Hurst where the sport historically goes back to 1862, says the village cricket club.
For Wokingham area’s Rangers Cricket Club it means they will have their own ground instead of having to hire one.
Members of Hurst CC and Rangers held separate meetings which ‘resoundingly’ backed the plan.
There will be a joint season in 2024 after which members will vote on creating a permanent arrangement.
The clubs say: “The merger will step change the amount of cricket being based in Hurst with three adult Saturday sides, two Sunday sides, two mid-week sides as well as a healthy and growing junior section.”
Hurst Cricket Club chair, Martin Garrard, said: “This is an excellent outcome and a huge moment for our cricket club. After a very difficult season in 2023, this will secure cricket in the village and put the cricket club back at the heart of Hurst.
“We welcome Rangers Cricket Club members to our facility and look forward to building a cricket club fighting in the top tiers of Berkshire and the Thames Valley.”
Rangers Cricket Club Chair Parry Batth said: “Rangers Cricket Club is delighted to come together with Hurst Cricket Club as it offers readily accessible cricketing and club facilities.
“This will give our players a broader access to cricket and we hope to see their kids playing junior cricket within the merged cricket club.”
Last season Rangers hired pitches at Woodford Park, Woodley, Claires Court Junior Boys School, Maidenhead and Great Holland Recreation Ground in Wokingham.
Rangers’ previous lack of their own ground meant they had no junior section. Now their young contacts will be able to join the young cricketers already playing at Hurst.
Friday evening practice is a big event at Hurst, with many families and supporters going to enjoy the cricket, a barbecue and use of the bar.
Hurst Cricket Club’s attractive ground is in the middle of the village, opposite the duck pond in Wokingham Road. The ground has lane nets for practice and a licenced pavilion from where to watch the cricket or host parties and meetings. All the facilities are available for hire.
The cricketers say they would welcome interest from potential sponsors and supporters as they get the exciting new chapter underway.
Winter nets are in use now and new members across all ages and levels are very welcome.
For more information, email: hurstccofficial@gmail.com
