Walking cricket captures all the key skill elements of cricket except that it is played at even more leisurely pace than normal cricket, running is forbidden! It provides an ideal opportunity for those who are no longer in at their physical peak, but either have played before and would like show off their past skills or those who would like to give a try and learn new skills.
It is open to everyone, regardless of gender, ability or background. We strives to create an
atmosphere which is welcoming, friendly, and inclusive of all for the enjoyment of competitive walking cricket in the true spirit and traditions of the game. The primary objective is to promote a healthy pursuit, sense of fun, mutual respect, and consideration of the needs of others.
Currently the skill levels vary from former members of local cricket clubs to several members who have never picked up a bat or a ball before. They all, however, have an Olympic medal in having fun, enjoying the camaraderie and looking out for each other. We play all year round, moving to the Rainbow Centre, Epsom, during the winter months.
Whilst the primary focus is on enjoying the social interaction that the game provides, we also play competitive games against other local clubs. We always ensure that everyone has the opportunity to play in some of these matches. We, Epsom Thoroughbreads, are holders of the 2022 Surrey County Walking Cricket Championship and also the winners of the competition held at the Lord’s Indoor Centre.

..ooOOoo..
Message From The Captain Of Epsom Thoroughbreads

Starting with just 8 “players” turning up at the first session a couple of years ago, Walking Cricket has caught fire in Surrey. Starting from that low base, almost two years ago, Epsom Thoroughbreds won the inaugural Surrey County Cricket Club (SCCC) Walking Cricket Championship and then went on to win an indoor competition at Lord’s earlier this year.
We have now been adopted by the Epsom cricket Club. SCCC Foundation is now firmly behind the project and the game is spreading all across Surrey at great speed. We have a range of abilities, ranging from those who haven’t played before to former members of local cricket clubs. The joy of having fun and enjoying the camaraderie is, however, Olympic standard. Merciless micky-taking, dropped catches, mis-fielding & waving of the bat at thin air!!! You can’t beat that buzz.
After more than 30 years of watching cricket from the outside the boundary rope, it’s a sheer joy tostep over the boundary and walking on to the pitch to play. Moving from being a passive supporter to an active player is almost a spiritual experience which uplifts the soul & almost brings a lump to the throat.
Memories flooding back after 30 odd years, when I last batted or bowled my leg breaks. I remember the first day we started, just defending & nudging the ball around when batting and only landing a couple of balls on the pitch when bowling. Then I started cutting & sweeping. Then a few drives & then I shocked myself a couple of weeks ago, stepping inside a bouncer & hooking
it. When bowling, more & more balls started landing on the pitch, on the right length & turning. Just like 30+ odd years ago. Cricket is probably the only sport where the skills of batting and bowling can still be enjoyed in senior years.

It’s excellent exercise for physical and mental well being. A welcome distraction from the aches & pains of old age, focusing on what we can still do, despite the physical limitations. The old competitive spirit kicks in and you find yourself rising to the challenge and stretching &pushing yourself a bit more every time you bat & bowl.
The cherry on the cake last summer was lifting the Walking Cricket County Championship trophy; playing for Surrey County against Essex the first ever County match; playing at the Oval and theLord’s Indoor Centre. All at the age of 75!!! Pinch me! I am in dream land.

Contact: Vinod (Vinny) Sharma, Captain of Epsom Thoroughbreds, on vinsharma@blueyonder.co.uk