A footballer has helped open a brand new community sports facility.
Boro goalkeeper Sol Brynn cut the ribbon on Middlesbrough Cricket Club’s new all-weather training nets at Acklam Park during a special event attended by the cricket club’s players and members.
Brynn was invited to open the facility as part of joint work between the cricket and football clubs, who share a historic connection dating back to 1876 when members of the cricket club formed Middlesbrough FC.
Mal Bruton, chairman of Middlesbrough Cricket Club, said: "We’re proud of our history with the football club and are very grateful to Sol for supporting the event.
"We aim to provide the best environment in the local area and these new nets certainly help to do that.
"We are fortunate to have secured grant funding to support this massive investment in our club’s future.
"I’d like to thank everyone who has helped to make it happen.
"The nets will help us go on producing excellent young cricketers."
Brynn said: "I know the cricket club is a big part of the community and the new nets are impressive.
"It’s great that the juniors have such good facilities to train in."
The training facility was funded through grants from the Enovert Community Trust and the England and Wales Cricket Board, along with sponsorship and fundraising by club members.
The project was completed in December.
The event included celebratory first overs in each of the four nets, with players from across the club taking part.
First team vice-captain Jake Whittle faced Harry Williams, the North Yorkshire and South Durham Premier League’s leading wicket taker for 2025, in one of the nets.
The MFC Foundation supported the event, with Boro mascot Roary the Lion posing for photos with junior players.
Share