Story:Amie Rowland and Lisa Swift
The derelict tennis courts at Abbeyfield Park were a hive of activity on 30th August as local people came to view plans for the new cricket facility and meet Yorkshire and England Cricketer, Craig White.
Sheffield City Council, in partnership with the England and Yorkshire Cricket Boards has secured £80,000 funding from NPower to develop a purpose built cricket facility at Abbeyfield Park. Local youngsters with a passion for cricket and interested local residents had the opportunity to comment on the plans and attempt to bowl Craig out! The feedback was extremely positive.
Ateeq told the Messenger,
“I play cricket for King Edwards school, I’d like to play here when its done.”
Anser Khan said
“I play all the time, it’ll be good to practice here when it’s done.”
Brett Weldon told us,
“It’ll be good when its done, we live right next to it.”
His brother Dale, who is a bowler for Thorncliffe cricket club, said
“It’s a good initiative, it will get people playing more.”
Other residents felt that the new facility will bring new life back into the Park and will be an excellent resource for everyone. Abbeyfield Park was chosen over other sites across the country due to the commitment and passion shown by the Abbeyfield Cricketers and the popularity of cricket in the area. And it’s a lot to do with the enthusiasm and commitment of local cricketer and coach for the Firs Hill school team Hedar Rasool.
“We’re always playing here and coaching the kids, there’s always a good atmosphere. I play for Shiregreen Cricket club now but when I was 14 we had our own team here in Burngreave. I’d like to see a Pitsmoor team here again, with young people running it themselves.”
Firs Hill teacher Bibi Hussain said:
“I help Hedar with the cricket team, and you can see there’s great talent in this area. We’d love to use this facility for after school practice, and in the future for tournaments.”
Councillor Hussain told the Messenger,
“I grew up playing cricket, and we’ve never had anything like this. It’s brilliant.”
Craig White commented that
“The new cricket arena will provide a fantastic opportunity for young people. I have every confidence that it'll be a great success- especially with the enthusaism I've seen here this evening!”
If you have any comments on this project please contact Amie Rowland on 0114 273 6952, or email amie.rowland@sheffield.gov.uk
