Banstead Cricket Club

In 1842, a friendly rivalry began. Banstead Cricket Club held its first recorded match. Banstead Cricket Club quickly became a cornerstone of Surrey’s cricketing scene. The club has nurtured numerous talented players throughout its history. They’ve consistently maintained a high level of play. John Wilcox’s book, “Playing on the Green,” chronicles much of this rich history. The club still has copies available for a small donation. They encourage anyone with memories of Banstead Cricket Club to share them. The club has celebrated its 175th anniversary with various events. These include a Summer Ball, Annual Cricket Week, and a match featuring England Masters against Banstead Cricket Club. More recently, Banstead Cricket Club faced a challenging situation. They sought to modernize their facilities. This included updating dilapidated changing rooms and the clubhouse. However, they met resistance from local residents concerned about the impact on the green belt. The planning committee was split. The chairman’s deciding vote ultimately rejected the proposal. The club’s aim was to create a 21st-century home ground. They also wanted to accommodate the growing number of women and girls playing cricket. Despite the setback, Banstead Cricket Club remains an integral part of the community. Their records, spanning from 1857 to 2005, are housed at the Surrey History Centre. These records include committee minutes, annual reports, accounts, scorebooks, and photographs. They offer a glimpse into the club’s enduring legacy.