The cricket club that was home to legendary England fast bowler Harold Larwood is welcoming new players for the upcoming season.

Kirkby Portland CC has played at Nuncargate since 1878 and are famous for their link to Harold, best known for his role in the ‘Bodyline’ Ashes test series against Australia.

There are several pieces of memorabilia about Harold in the Kirkby Portland pavilion and The Cricketers Arms pub. There is also a plaque next to the front door of his former home.
As the new season approaches, net sessions are getting started for the club’s teams and they would welcome any new players.

The men’s 1st XI currently play at a high level in Division A of the South Notts League, one below the Notts Premier League.

Kirkby Portland 2nd XI plays lower down the South Notts League and the club also has a Sunday team, which aims to give juniors their first taste of adult cricket at a suitable level.

The club also has a successful women’s side, playing in the East Midlands Women’s Cricket League Premier Division. Junior sides operate from softball level through to under-15s.

Many clubs have a function room and bar to help with fundraising, but Kirkby Portland does not and, therefore, raising funds is an annual challenge.

To try something they’ve not done before, the club has arranged a fundraising speaker evening, featuring Notts CCC legend Luke Fletcher and hosted by BBC Radio Nottingham’s Dave Bracegirdle.

Tickets for the event at at Annesley Woodhouse Working Men’s Club, on Friday, 21st February, cost £12.50 in advance.

The event is open to all. For more information contact club secretary Mollie at [email protected] or committee member Colin, on 07780 676345.