CRICKET
Barnard Castle Cricket Club are launching a women’s cricket team as well as an U15s girls’ team for the start of the 2024 season.
The plan is being promoted by director of cricket Ben Usher, and Mark Robson who will be helping with coaching and organising both teams.
Last year the club had a girls U17 team.
“We believe there are a lot of girls who are now able and interested in playing at a competitive level. Undoubtedly initiatives like The Hundred have brought women’s cricket to the forefront and that has encouraged this,” Mr Robson said.
“We were one of only five teams in the U17s league last year, but it was great experience. This year we have a lot of younger girls coming through so U15s seems the right option.
“As well as that we will have a women’s hardball team. Sedgefield is currently the closest team in location to us, so we have a large catchment area that we can get players from.”
The hunt for players has now begun with training expected to begin indoors in February.
Mr Robson added: “The ladies will play on a Friday night and that will be at Barnard Castle School. We are extremely grateful to the school for agreeing to let us use their facilities.
“The U15s will be based primarily at the club as well as all practice sessions for both sides being held there.”
Mr Usher said: “Mark will be managing and coaching the side, but we will also be bringing in a coach to help and guide the talent in the summer.
“The club is really investing in this, and we are expecting it to thrive.”
If you are interested in joining the U15s or the women’s side, contact Wendy Rutherford on 07812 178710. Training starts at Barnard Castle School on February 11.
