Warwick CC throw open their doors in a bid to bolster ranks

Warwick CC are hoping to boost their ranks courtesy of the ECBs Club Open Days initiative

Warwick, whose first team ply their trade in Division Four of the Warwickshire League, have struggled for playing talent since an exodus of five key players two years ago.

As a result, some of the thriving youngsters have been thrown in at the deep end but Wilson believes all that could change.

Warwick have yet to pencil in a definitive date but they are planning to hold their ECB Club Open Day – which will include net sessions, softball on the outfield and a barbecue – on Sunday July 12.

And 72-year-old Wilson has encouraged any local cricket enthusiasts to dust off their whites and help ease a player shortage.

“We have a thriving junior section and we’re hoping to  attract as many of them as  possible on the day itself,” he said.

“But we are struggling to run the amount of sides we have so we’re having to use a large amount of youngsters in the adult sides.

“Hopefully, a couple of the parents are encouraged to come along and then, perhaps, take to playing for Warwick.

“We’re fighting our way back after losing a few players a couple of years ago, and this scheme is very important in terms of helping us pick up a couple of new players.”

The ECB Club Open Days initiative is a nationwide programme offering a day of cricket taster sessions and activities with the aim of boosting grassroots participation.

And former England captain turned ECB Cricket Partnership Ambassador Mike Gatting believes as many people as possible should head down to Warwick, adamant it will help build a better future for English cricket.

“Club Open Days has proven to be a fantastic way for cricket clubs to capitalise on the nation’s fervour for cricket during the summer,” said Gatting.

“By opening their pavilion doors and showcasing what they have to offer to their local community, clubs will hopefully be able to inspire newcomers to come and join them.”

For more information about Club Open Days, supported by Waitrose, including a full list of clubs registered, visit ecb.co.uk/clubopendays.