As we look ahead to another exciting summer of cricket, the message is simple: good preparation leads to good cricket.
Ground Preparation
Pre-season groundwork is one of the most important jobs we undertake each year. Quality batting strips and a well-maintained outfield don’t happen by chance — they are the result of hours of careful planning, hard work, and attention to detail. When our wickets are true and consistent, players can trust the bounce and carry. When the outfield is even and well-cut, the game flows, boundaries are earned properly, and fielding becomes a showcase of skill rather than survival.
Without good preparation, we simply cannot expect to produce the standard of cricket that players, supporters and visitors deserve. Strong groundwork sets the tone for the entire season. It gives our teams the best chance to compete and ensures that every match at Oakley Park is played in the right spirit — on surfaces that reward good cricket.
But it’s not just about what happens inside the boundary rope.
Around the Clubhouse
Around the clubhouse, standards matter just as much. Clean, tidy and up-to-date changing rooms, welcoming bar facilities and comfortable social areas are vital to the health of the club. They create an environment where:
Players feel proud to represent Oakley CC Supporters enjoy spending their time Opposing teams feel welcome and respected
A well-presented clubhouse encourages people to stay longer, bring family and friends, and support the bar — and that income is crucial. Every pound spent behind the bar or at club events goes directly back into maintaining and improving our facilities, equipment and teams.
Building for the Future
Our new Chair, Kris Tucknott, is keen to build on the recent redevelopment work at the club and further enhance what we offer. The progress made in recent years has put us in a strong position, and the ambition now is to continue that growth — both on and off the pitch. By improving our facilities and maintaining high standards throughout the ground, we strengthen our ability to attract new members, retain existing players, and appeal to potential sponsors who want to be associated with a thriving, forward-thinking club.
However, none of this happens without the support of our members.
To continue moving forward, we need your help.
Whether it’s lending a hand with rolling and cutting, helping tidy the clubhouse, painting, repairing, cleaning, or simply giving up a few hours at a working party — every contribution makes a difference. Many hands make light work, and the more we achieve together now, the better our season will be.
This club belongs to all of us. If we invest some of our time now, we set ourselves up for a fantastic summer of cricket, community and continued growth.
Let’s work together to make it a great season at Oakley CC.
*First groundwork session in on 7th March 2026 from 9:00 AM.
