NZCT Helps Relaunch Cricket in the Teviot Valley

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded Teviot Valley Cricket Club a $4,000 grant for uniforms and essential equipment, helping establish senior teams and bring organised cricket back to the community for the 2026/27 season.

The club was formed after about 20 years without organised cricket in the Teviot Valley. It aims to reintroduce the game, reconnect the community with the sport, and create opportunities for players of all ages and abilities.

Club Secretary Joshua Murray says, “As a new club, we can’t afford essential uniforms and equipment without external support. This funding will help make cricket more affordable and accessible in our first season.”

The grant will also free up club resources to improve the local wicket and facilities, helping the club work towards hosting games in the Teviot Valley. It is also expected to give local people more opportunities to get involved in cricket.

Club President James Hill says, “Starting a new club comes with a lot of costs, especially for uniforms and playing equipment, so support like this takes a huge amount of pressure off both the players and the club financially. It means we can focus on building something sustainable and creating a good environment for people to be part of. This isn’t just about cricket. It’s about bringing people together again, giving the community something to get behind, and creating opportunities for local players to represent the Teviot Valley close to home.”

First-year cricketer Scott Muir says, “As someone who is new to cricket, support towards uniforms and equipment makes a massive difference. Starting a new sport can be daunting, especially when gear is involved, so having that support makes it much easier to give it a go. The club has already been really welcoming, and I think lowering those barriers will encourage more people who haven’t played before to come along and be part of it.”

Young local cricketer Regan Hill says, “I never really thought there would be a chance to play cricket for the Teviot Valley as an adult, so it is pretty special to see the club come back. Being able to play locally alongside my dad and brother makes it even better. Support towards uniforms and equipment also helps make the club more accessible for younger players and gives people growing up in the valley the chance to represent their own community again.”

NZCT General Manager of Grants, Marketing and Communications Ben Hodges says,

“Getting a club like this up and running again makes a real difference locally. It gives people a reason to come together and creates opportunities for players to take part in sport close to home. We are pleased to support the club as it gets established. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnerships we share with the Grand Tavern via their responsible gaming lounge.