Surrey County Cricket Club made history when they unveiled their inaugural competitive women’s team at an open house at Kia Oval on Friday, 1st November. Dubbed “Three Feathers”, their joy was contagious as they entered into female domestic cricket’s new era with pride and gusto.
Players arrived at the venue full of confidence and enthusiasm, marked by a stunning photograph of Captain Bryony Smith which was displayed prominently in Micky Stewart Members Pavilion forecourt. Each player was awarded their traditional South East Stars and Surrey caps as a mark of end in regional structure as well as start in new chapter of club’s existence.
Oli Slipper, chair of Surrey CCC and Emma Calvert, director for Women’s Cricket at Oval began the evening by giving speeches in its historical Long Room. Once this was complete, Calvert introduced each newcomer to team members of Surrey Club that gathered in support. Director Steve Elworthy then presented each player with their Surrey cap, signalling an official beginning for their Surrey journeys.
Captain of the team Bryony Smith expressed her appreciation for the warm reception extended by Surrey as they embarked upon their new chapter together as Three Feathers. Smith noted, “It has been incredible feeling starting our journey together as Three Feathers at Surrey,” adding, “we can feel their support surrounding us as we embark upon this exciting chapter in their history. “
Smith first joined Surrey when she was 11-years-old and later rose through their ranks to captain them as captain of their Under-11s team. “Becoming captain for my home team at such an extraordinary stage in women’s cricket in the domestic league is truly an extraordinary privilege and responsibility,” she stated.
Steve Elworthy also addressed the crowd, sharing his excitement over Surrey FC Women and acknowledging all of the hard work put in to establishing a Tier 1 women’s team for Surrey. Elworthy declared, “Today marks an immense moment in our history as we welcome a capable women’s team into Surrey; everyone involved has given their all in helping this happen and now it is up to us all to ensure their success!” “Dedication has been amazing from everyone involved and now is time for Surrey to provide support that will enable this team to flourish
He continued, saying: “Our goal is to set the standard for women’s domestic cricket in England and Wales, making this Club an attractive venue for our women’s team.
Surrey CCC unveiled a special display at its Micky Stewart Members Pavilion to commemorate both its history of women’s sports at Kia Oval and also honour past achievements as well as kick-start its future era for Surrey CCC and Three Feathers Cricket Club.
Surrey CCC’s Female Competent team are poised to mark their presence by continuing the long and rich history of female cricket in England, while opening up an exciting new era for female cricket across England. Caps are on the table, and enthusiasm runs high – all hallmarks of success for any successful cricket club or organization.