Cricket, a sport that transcends boundaries and brings nations together, is not just a game but a celebration of camaraderie and sportsmanship. The Spirit of Cricket, embodying these values, will be hosting the Cricketers Club of NSW for a series of matches in Adelaide.
The Adelaide Tour: A Week of Celebrations
The upcoming tour in Adelaide promises to be a highlight, featuring games against formidable opponents and iconic cricket grounds.
Game 1:Â Against Kensington District Cricket Club at Col Waite Oval in Kensington Gardens, the home of legends like Sir Donald Bradman, Clarrie Grimmett, and many more.
The Sir Donald Bradman statue at the Adelaide Oval
Game 2:Â A Barossa Invitational XI at the historic Chateau Tanunda Oval, offering a bucket-list experience for players and fans alike.
Game 3:Â Against the Grange Dolphins Cricket Club, part of the Adelaide Turf Cricket Association at the John Mitchell Reserve
Final Game:Â Back at the Chateau Tanunda on Australia Day compliments of Des's Buses, where the Cricketers Club of NSW will face the Spirit of Cricket Community XI, featuring former Australian internationals & Redbacks Jamie Siddons and Peter McIntyre.
South Australia’s dramatic Sheffield Shield victory in 1995/96
The tour promises not just thrilling cricket action but also a chance to explore the rich cricketing heritage of the region. The Chateau Tanunda Oval, with its hallowed turf, adds a touch of nostalgia, making it an unforgettable experience for all involved and owner and cricket tragic John Geber is looking forward to showcasing not just the ground, but the Cricketers Bar, The Long Room, The Cricketers Wine Vault and of course the fine quality 100 year old red wine.
John Geber - Cricket Tragic and Owner of the Chateau Tanunda Winery
The Chateau Tanunda Winery Cricketers Bar
Let's take a trip down memory lane to understand the rich history of the Cricketers Club of NSW.
The Cricketers Club of NSW: A Journey Through Time
The roots of the Cricketers Club date back to 1894 when the idea of forming a club for Sydney cricketers was first proposed. However, it wasn't until 1927 that the notion gained traction at a meeting of the New South Wales Cricket Association (NSWCA). Sydney Webb, a prominent solicitor, played a pivotal role in drafting the constitution for the Cricketers Club in 1938, and it officially opened its doors on July 1, 1940.
From its inception, the club was dedicated to cricket's development, evident in the setup of cricket nets on the roof of Cricket House for members to practice during lunch hours. The club's progress was so remarkable that by 1942, it had become a beacon for Sydney grade cricketers, with most of them being proud members.
The Cricketers Club's Pioneering Bush Tours
One name that stands out in the club's history is Jack Chegwyn, a Randwick batsman who became a legend for his pioneering work in organizing country tours for teams of leading players from the State's representative sides. By 1942, the Cricketers Club had made significant strides, even providing a crucial loan to the NSWCA when it faced financial challenges.
John "Jack" William Chegwyn (left in 1944) MBE (18 March 1909 – 26 May 1992) was an Australian cricketer and cricket administrator.
A Dominating Force in Sydney Cricket & Tours.
Fast forward to the present day, the Cricketers Club boasts around 100 active cricketers, with 30 playing on Saturdays and another 70 participating in Sunday and mid-week games. The club's teams have been a dominant force in the Sydney City and Suburban competition for over 50 years, hosting numerous touring teams from across the globe. In the 2022-2023 season, the Cricketers Club played a total of 76 games, showcasing their commitment to the sport. Along with this active role in NSW Cricket, the CCNSW have toured many countries including Fiji, New Zealand, Canada, USA, Malaysia, Singapore, West Indies, England, South Africa, , Vanuatu , Bali, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Samoa, Paris, Ireland, Malta, South America, Italy, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Amsterdam, Malta, Thailand, Scotland along with Tours to Norfolk ?Island, Lord Howe Island, Cooke Islands, Cairns, Tasmania, Perth & Darwin.
Join the Celebration
As the Spirit of Cricket welcomes the Cricketers Club of NSW, cricket enthusiasts can look forward to a week of celebrations, culminating in a T20 game against the Spirit of Cricket Community XI on Australia Day.
For further information on this exciting tour, please contact Anthony Telfer at 0419359618.
Let the games begin, and may the spirit of cricket continue to unite players and fans around the world!