Have you ever wondered why a cricket ground is called the Basin Reserve? Well, it all began with a swamp. Back in 1840, when Wellington was a young city, a lagoon was named the “Basin” by Captain William Mein Smith. He envisioned it becoming a harbor for ships, but fate had other plans. In 1855, a massive earthquake struck the region, changing Wellington’s landscape forever. The Basin, once a lagoon, was lifted by the quake and turned into a swampy wasteland.
The English colonists, however, had a yearning for cricket. With the city rapidly expanding, existing cricket fields were getting swallowed up by development. In 1857, they lobbied for a permanent cricket ground, and the swampy basin at Te Aro became the chosen site.
Imagine the scene. Prisoners from nearby Mount Cook gaol, working under the watchful eyes of guards, drained and flattened this swampy area. It was a tough task, but they persevered, their labor transforming the Basin into a playable ground. The first recorded game was held in 1868, a match between the Wellington Volunteers and the crew of HMS Falcon. The field was still a bit rough, with stones and thistles, but the game went on, and the passion for cricket was ignited.
Today, the Basin Reserve is a world-renowned cricket ground, a testament to the enduring spirit of the game and the resilience of the colonists who tamed the swamp. This historic ground has witnessed some of the most exciting moments in New Zealand cricket, countless matches, and even some remarkable feats of athleticism beyond the game. The Basin Reserve is more than just a stadium; it is a symbol of the city’s history, its triumphs, and its enduring love for the game.