THE CITY is uniting to shore up the future of cricket at Worcestershire County Cricket Club.
The club and its iconic ground at New Road are facing a “perfect storm” of an ageing ground, changes to English Cricket and increasing impacts from flooding exacerbated by climate change.
And as a result Tom Collins, the MP for Worcester called a meeting in Heart of Worcestershire College’s boardroom, which overlooks the historic cricket ground.
The group of representatives from local organisations including the Environment Agency and City and County Councils were united in their ambition to support a bright future for the cricket club.
Mr Collins said: “I and many others in our city recognise the incredible history and beauty of our New Road ground and the importance of Worcester hosting our famous county cricket club.
“There was a clear consensus at the meeting that we are all united by a strong and heartfelt desire to find new solutions that support both the club and the ground.
“Our city has had a tough time with sport recently and it’s time to buck that trend. This meeting was the start of a great collaborative effort to do all we can as a city to back our incredible professional sport and forge a secure future for cricket here.
“I would like to thank Heart of Worcestershire College for hosting us so well, and all who attended for their dedication, energy and openness.
“While this is just the beginning the level of passion and collaboration in the room was an encouraging sign of hope.”
Jabba Riaz, deputy leader of Worcester City Council continued: “It was essential that we came together to understand the finer details of the issues that the club is facing. I would like to thank all those involved for having an honest conversation around the reality of the obstacles before us.
“I am glad Tom has taken on this challenge and that he shares the City Council leadership’s vision of ensuring that cricket remains a central feature of our sporting offer.”
Ashley Giles, CEO of Worcestershire County Cricket Club added: “New Road is more than just a cricket ground; it’s a symbol of our community’s history, resilience, and shared passion for sport.
“The challenges we face are significant, but the commitment shown by all involved today is a powerful reminder that collaboration and innovation can secure the Club’s future.
“We are incredibly grateful to Tom Collins MP and to all our partners for their dedication to preserving and strengthening Worcestershire’s cricketing legacy.”
