Alick Athanaze's cover drive for the West Indies at Beckenham County Cricket Ground slips between the boundary boards, where a young boy eagerly fields the ball. His friends cheer and hug him as if he had taken a crucial catch, embodying the warmth of the day despite the lack of sunshine.
Engaging the Community
The West Indies' warm-up match against a First Class Counties Select XI attracted an enthusiastic crowd. The batters thrived in the lively atmosphere, amassing 339 runs. In response, the Select XI reached 15 without loss by the close of play. This three-day match offers vital preparation for the West Indies before their first Test against England at Lord's next Wednesday.
Batting Practice and Key Performances
While captain Kraigg Brathwaite fell early, lasting only eight balls before edging Josh Turner behind for four, there were notable performances from Alick Athanaze, Kirk McKenzie, and Kavem Hodge, who scored a century with 112 runs off 128 balls. Mikyle Louis, scoring a half-century off 63 balls, has made a strong case for the vacant opening spot opposite Brathwaite.
Cultural Significance and Community Engagement
Beyond the cricket, this match served to reconnect with cricket-loving Caribbean communities in southeast London. Asher Roberts, Kent's development officer, has been planning this "Rally Round the West Indies" event for six months. "Everything right now shows that there is a demand for cricket in the southeast, and London itself," Roberts remarked.
Enthusiastic Crowds and Community Spirit
With 800 tickets sold on the first day, the crowd gradually filled up despite chilly winds and sporadic showers. The stands resonated with the sounds of air horns and cheers as Athanaze and Hodge displayed their skills. Glenroy and Fitzroy, near the pavilion, discussed the tourists' prospects for their cricket WhatsApp group. "We know the T20 players but not many of these ones," Glenroy noted, adding that challenging conditions in England could be a hurdle.
Building a Legacy
In the stands, Mercia Campbell watched the game with her grown-up children, reflecting on cricket's special place among the Caribbean diaspora. Her daughter Caitlin emphasised the community and passion it fosters. Simon Jackson, a former Jamaica player now coaching in England, highlighted the positive shift in cricket engagement, attributing it to initiatives like the ACE programme charity and efforts by Asher Roberts.
Future Prospects
The Beckenham ground, which missed out on being a Tier One venue for women's cricket, remains a place of great potential. With 600 primary school children set to attend and over a thousand tickets sold for the final day, featuring steel bands and a dance group, the ground is poised to become a vital hub for cricket in the area.
The West Indies match at Beckenham was more than just a warm-up; it was a celebration of cricket and community, showing the sport's power to unite and inspire.