ABOUT THE V&A CRICKET CLUB

THE VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM CRICKET CLUB was founded in 1975 by some arty types from the V&A, the sort who do not get chosen when teams are picking up sides in the playground. Most of the original pansies left and the V&A is now a team of mixed ability and age, with some new members under 30 who can throw over-arm. Players are lured to Stonor, our delightful home ground from which we rarely stray, by the beauty of the pitch and the valley. We play at Stonor Park through the generosity of The Hon. William Stonor. We are also grateful to Stonor CC, and to their recently retired groundsman Tony Fisher, who maintained the pitch and outfield so beautifully. The match fee is £130 for the visiting team (including players’ friends and family), worth it for the sight of Lord Camoys’ great house and park, the kites and the deer – if not the cricket. Facilities have been upgraded and we now provide nets, showers, a ladies’ lavatory – and swimming nearby. Captains agree the type of game to be played on the day, but whether limited overs or declaration, teams looking for fierce gladiatorial competition may be disappointed. Our Fixtures Secretary, Sarah Jenkins, also provides lunch and tea. Players returning from Colonial Service abroad find the view, conversation and menu reassuringly familiar.

Sometimes the tension at a V&A match at Stonor reaches fever pitch