Kennet Leisure Centre Unveils New Indoor Cricket Nets
Kennet Leisure Centre this week celebrated the official opening of its new indoor cricket nets, marking a significant investment in the development of cricket for young people in Thatcham. The event brought together supporters, partners, and members of the local cricket community to recognise the growing success of Kennet Cricket and Thatcham Cricket Club.
The ceremony included words of thanks from Kennet Cricket’s Jonny Peppiatt and Thatcham Cricket’s Iain Cottingham, followed by a ribbon cutting led by former professional cricketer and Berkshire Captain Julian Wood. Guests were then invited to watch players take part in a training session in the new facility.
The new nets and mats—already in use for multiple hours each week—represent a major step forward for Kennet Cricket, whose recent achievements include three out of four teams reaching County Cup semi-finals last season, the club’s most successful year on record. The improved indoor facilities form part of a broader programme of development that includes new training equipment, refurbished outdoor pitches and nets, and expansions to the club’s competitive offering.
In 2025, Kennet Cricket will launch a new U18 First XI, continue the growth of girls’ hardball cricket, and take its players on a pre-season tour to Devon. The club credits its rapid progress to the exceptional backing it has received from parents, supporters, and the wider community.
“These facilities are a clear symbol of the investment and belief in what we’re building,” said Jonny Peppiatt. “We’re incredibly grateful—not just for the financial support, but for the commitment, energy, and culture that everyone around Kennet Cricket has helped create.”
The opening marks another milestone for cricket in Thatcham, with both clubs looking ahead to continued growth and success in the seasons to come.
