Graces CC players have embarked on a four-match tour to Malta to celebrate the landmark 20th anniversary of its founding as the world’s first ever LGBT cricket club.
The London-based club was founded in April 1996 to increase enjoyment of the game of cricket within the LGBT community.
Originally created as a supporters group, growing interest led to the club putting out its first playing side in 1997.
Graces played that first game against Wendover Cricket Club – winning by six wickets – and have continued to go from strength to strength in the two decades since.
The club now plays upwards of 20 fixtures a season in London and the city’s surrounds.
Speaking about the tour, Graces Tour Secretary Matthew Davis said: “Our players and supporters are from a spectrum of cricketing nations and backgrounds and we’re looking forward to visiting a country with such a rich and diverse history and a reputation for friendliness and tolerance.”
Club Chairman Jonathan Hardisty added: “The tour of Malta will provide a wonderful start to our 20th anniversary season. We’re hoping that, contrary to our usual early season games, we won’t need to bring at least two jumpers and long johns.”
Malta Cricket Association Chairman Frank Spiteri echoed Hardisty’s sentiments: “We’re extremely pleased that Graces Cricket Club have chosen to visit Malta in celebration of their 20th anniversary and we wish Graces’ players and supporters every success for the future of their club.”
During the trip Graces CC will play two fixtures against Maltese side Marsa and two matches against fellow touring sides Wandlers and Baldock Town.
Graces CC tour fixtures
- Friday 15 April: Graces CC v Baldock Town; Graces CC v Marsa
- Saturday 16 April: Graces CC v Wandlers
- Sunday 17 April: Graces CC v Marsa
Source: ECB