East Anton Cricket Club is calling on local residents and cricket lovers to join their thriving, community-focused club as it continues to go from strength to strength both on and off the pitch.
Founded in late 2021 by a group of passionate village cricketers, the club has grown rapidly in just a few short years. What began with a friendly fixture list in 2022 has blossomed into a vibrant and ambitious club, now competing with two teams in the Hampshire Cricket League and running multiple programmes for young players.
The 2023 season marked a milestone as the club achieved Clubmark Accreditation – a prestigious, cross-sport standard that recognises high standards in welfare, equity, coaching, and management in community sport. It is a testament to East Anton’s commitment to creating a safe, welcoming, and well-run environment for all.
As part of its mission to engage more people with cricket, East Anton introduced the ECB All Stars programme in 2023 for children aged 5–8, led by Caseymarie Horne. This year, the club has expanded its youth offering with the ECB Dynamos programme for children aged 8–11, spearheaded by club training coach George Horne.
“We’re really passionate about giving as many people as possible the chance to enjoy cricket,” said club spokesperson Andrew Pollington. “You don’t need to be experienced, fit, or even particularly skilled – just enthusiastic!”
The club prides itself on being family-friendly and community-oriented, with members encouraged to bring loved ones to fixtures. Off the field, a strong social calendar includes curry nights, BBQs, quizzes, and race nights. “It’s more than cricket,” Andrew added. “It’s about building friendships and having fun.”
East Anton’s ambitions do not stop there. With the boom in women’s cricket, the club is actively working towards fielding a women’s softball team. Founding member Caseymarie Horne, who currently plays in the men’s side, is leading the charge and is calling on women of all abilities to get involved.
On the pitch, 2024 has been another breakthrough year. The 1st XI, captained by Liam Burden-Brown, currently sits unbeaten at the top of Hampshire League Division 5D after three games. A balanced side of experienced batters and bowlers, the team is pushing for promotion while maintaining its commitment to being the most welcoming, family-first cricket club in the area.
Meanwhile, the 2nd XI is enjoying its debut season in Division 6D. Led by captain Matt Bailey, the squad blends youth with experience and is currently third in the league table. The emphasis here is on development and enjoyment, with a strong club ethos ensuring both senior teams support one another on and off the field.
In a nod to cricketing traditions, East Anton has also reintroduced teas at all home games – a practice many clubs lost in the post-Covid era. The club sees this as another way to enhance its reputation for hospitality and inclusion.
With Saturday and Sunday summer teams, a midweek T20 side, winter indoor teams, youth development, and military veteran involvement (six veterans currently play for the club), there has never been a better time to join East Anton Cricket Club.
Whether you’re a seasoned cricketer, returning to the game after a break, or a complete beginner, East Anton welcomes you. Get involved, meet new people, and become part of a growing cricketing family.
