On Wednesday 19th August, a team of Super1s disability cricketers travelled to Lord’s Cricket Ground to take part in the Super1s festival at the Festival of Disability 26
The team consisted of players from the Cheltenham, Frenchay, and Stroud hubs, and they were very excited to be playing at Lord’s, to many, the home of cricket. Many of the players had woken early to catch the coach there or travelled with parents, but we doubt much sleep was had due to excitement.
On arrival, we were greeted in the Performance Centre before being given new pink shirts. Kitted out in our flamboyant new uniform, the festival started.
The first match indoors was against Surrey, a strong team, where our Super1s bowled accurately, found the gaps when batting, and although a win was not on the cards, there was great team spirit and resilience shown
After a quick team talk, changes in field placement from Tom, ‘captain’ who showed excellent leadership throughout the festival and motivated by Corin, the team then faced Nottinghamshire. Here they showed strong batting, ran aggressively between the wickets, and bowling was excellent, resulting in a win.
Enthusiasm and excitement were high, as they stepped out onto the Lord’s outfield for their final match against Essex. Batting first, with increased confidence, the whole team batted well, highlighted by Jenson’s first ball 6!! The crowd went wild. Confidence grew further in the 2nd innings, where Jack took an amazing catch, and Harry excelled as wicketkeeper.
Presentation followed, where the team received medals, had come 4th, and met former England Captain David Gower.
Throughout the festival, the whole team was amazing. It was a team that hadn’t played together before, coming from different hubs. Tom showed excellent leadership throughout, whilst Corin motivated everyone, whilst showing a great understanding of the game. Harry was excellent as wicketkeeper, while Jack was enthusiastic in the field and took a spectacular catch. Digby, Courtney and Linda were enthusiastic throughout, batting well and bowling accurately.
The day ended with the team taking their seats in the stands to watch the England v India Mixed Disability match. It was a tremendous day and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the players.
Harry’s, one of the players, mum said
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for the Gloucestershire Super1s trip to Lord’s on the 19th August. Harry (and I!) had the absolute best day. Harry did not stop smiling all day and that continued afterwards. He was filled with pride at having played at Lord’s (and bonus having met David Gower!) and has been so excited to tell everyone he knows! We both loved watching the England v India mixed disability teams – he has quite high aspirations now!! Thank you again for this opportunity and for everything Super1s is doing for Harry’s happiness, mental health and confidence – he has found somewhere he belongs, is valued and can progress which I’m not sure he’s ever really had before in his 15 years.
Charlotte Moore, GCF Women and Girls Development Manager, said
It was a lovely day which showcased how incredible the Super1s are. It was great to be part of team atmosphere in creating lasting memories at Lords and seeing Jenson’s 1st ball hit for 6 was a spectacular moment.
If you would like to find out more about Super1s sessions or disability cricket in general, then visit the disability section of our website or get in touch with Jeanette Tate. We have locations across Gloucestershire.
