A CRICKET club are marking an incredible milestone this weekend
Northwich Cricket Club are celebrating its 200th anniversary this summer and will host a community celebration at Moss Farm on July 4 to mark the occasion.
Believed to have been founded in 1826, the club have played an important role in Northwich’s sporting life for two centuries, weathering wars, financial crises, relocations and even the threat of closure.
The earliest surviving scorecard from the club dates back to 1856, showing a match against Bowdon and indicating the club was already well-established.
Throughout its history, the club have played at several locations, including grounds near Winnington Lodge and at Vicarage Walk.
During the First World War, the club’s ground was converted into allotments, and the years before the Second World War brought financial difficulties that nearly saw the club fold.
The post-war years were among the club’s most memorable, drawing large crowds to matches and including appearances by cricket legends such as Sir Garfield Sobers, Frank Worrell, Basil D’Oliveira, and R.J. Ramadhin.
Future England captain Ian Botham also played at the ground in 1972 as part of Somerset’s Second XI.
Financial difficulties in 1997 once again threatened the club’s survival, but members rallied to save it, relocating to Moss Farm in 1999.
From modest beginnings with temporary facilities and a single Portacabin, the club have rebuilt into one of the area’s strongest community outfits.
Today, Northwich Cricket Club field three senior teams, junior teams from under nines to under 18s, and boast thriving girls’ and women’s sections.
A special anniversary crest has been created, along with commemorative merchandise.
The celebration day will begin at midday with the first XI facing Weaverham Cricket Club and will feature food, music, and entertainment.
A barbecue and bar will be available throughout the day, with Wildstone Pizzas serving from 5pm and live music from Jack Arnold starting at 6pm.
The event is open to all, with the club hoping to see the whole community come together to mark the occasion.
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