history

All about The Basildon & Pitsea Cricket Club


History

Originally called Basildon Cricket Club, we have been in existence since before the second world war. During the time when all the young men were serving in the forces, the club fell into decline, and was reformed in 1948. Back in these times the club played at the Old Rectory in Cranes Farm Road, now the site of the New Holland Tractor Plant.

We moved to the Benfleet Recreation ground when Basildon New Town began taking shape, and in 1962 the club moved back to Basildon. In 1968 The Basildon Cricket Club was formed, as a result of a merger between two of the New Town’s clubs; Basildon Cranes and Basildon Cricket Club. At the same time the club made Mopsies Park their headquarters, which is where the club still plays today. Naturally enough the merger of these two clubs was strengthened further by the addition of several well known local players from other clubs, producing a club of considerable strength. During this period the club won the Basildon Knock Out. Cup with regular consistency and also became the first club outside of the Southend area to win the Southend Knock Out Shield.

As time evolved, so did the fortunes of the club; we have always prided ourselves on a progressive approach to the future. This has manifested itself in many ways, not in the least by its strong youth policy which is the backbone of the clubs current players.

In 1982, the dream of many club members was realised when we welcomed then Essex Players Stuart Turner and Brian Hardie to open our new clubhouse. This was the culmination of much hard work and fund raising and represented a considerable step forward for the club.

The installation of a non-turf (all weather) wicket at the ground was a result of negotiations between the club and Basildon District Council and was regarded so highly by the Council they have a further 3 installed throughout the area.

In 1997, with the demise of Pitsea Cricket Club a further merger took place which again strengthened the membership of the club.    

Present

At present there is an abundance of cricket at Basildon & Pitsea Cricket Club. The club currently fields 3 league teams on a Saturday, playing in the T Rippon Mid Essex League for its members.

The club also has a thriving youth set up, fielding teams in the South Essex District Board competitions at under 9, 11, under 13 and under 15 age groups. These age groups are assisted by a loyal band of managers and coaches, who volunteer their services to develop the game to local children. Indeed one of our coaches was recognised by the Basildon Sports Council, who presented him with an award for endeavour in sport.

Future

The club is currently working closely with the local council to develop local cricket. We continue to increase our membership at both adult and youth level.

Looking forward, the club would dearly like a new, modern club house, giving benefits to the club members in a stylish new space, and also providing opportunities for hosting functions for our sponsors. As the club evolves, we will also look to continue to strengthen our membership; to cement our position as the leading cricket club in the area.