PEARS youngsters Josh Dell and Adam Finch participated in a taster day for visually impaired (VI) cricket at Old Elizabethans CC.
Batsman Dell and paceman Finch took part in a T10 match, captaining their respective sides, when they wore total blackout and sim specs which allow only pinhole vision.
The Worcestershire Elizabethans VI team raise the profile of blind cricket in the county and are part of the Regional Development League of Blind Cricket England and Wales.
VI cricket is an inclusive form of cricket where the blind can play against sighted on a level playing field. It was an experience that left a lasting impression on the Worcestershire pair.
Current England Under-19s player Finch said: “Being given the opportunity to take part in a game of visually impaired cricket was an amazing and challenging experience that I will not forget.
“The day filled me with admiration for the individuals playing the sport and their determination to do well and enjoy the game of cricket.
“Thank you again to Old Elizabethans for allowing us to take part in a brilliant day.”
Dell, who scored a half century on his Specsavers County Championship debut against Durham, said: “It was brilliant that people of all varying levels of vision can play the game through VI cricket.
“We tried on the different specs, including the ones that give out tunnel vision, and others, and some of those taking part were very good. A couple of them were smashing the ball everywhere but the great thing is anyone can take part in this game incorporating people of all abilities.”
Droitwich-based company Antolin, part of Grupo Antolin which is one of the largest players in the car interiors market internationally, sponsored the day and played against Worcestershire Elizabethans VI team in a T20 match.
After the match Antolin presented Worcestershire Elizabethans with a cheque for £2,000 to help with the costs of transport for away league matches.
Any blind or visually impaired keen or aspiring cricketers are invited to training sessions on Wednesday evenings at Old Elizabethans CC from 6.30pm to 8pm.