Chippingdale Cricket Club eye bright future with major developments on and off the field
Chippingdale Cricket Club head into the 2026 season with a strong sense of optimism as momentum builds both on the pitch and behind the scenes at its Rotary Ground in Worthing.
Following a productive winter, the club are well prepared for the challenges ahead.
Stability remains a key strength, with Josh Bourne continuing as first team Captain for an 11th consecutive season, an impressive milestone for a player who first took the role at just 17 years old.
Under his leadership, the club have risen through the ranks to Division 3 West of the Sussex Cricket League, achieving a record-breaking fourth-place finish in 2025.
The club have also strengthened its squad with the addition of an experienced overseas player, with further details to be announced soon.
There is a new face in charge of the Second XI, as Adam Robinson takes over captaincy duties from Jack Steele, who stepped down after successfully guiding the team to Division 6. Robinson will be aiming to build on that progress, with promotion firmly in his sights.
Meanwhile, the third XI remain under the leadership of Eril Nisbett, with a strong pool of players, young and not so, available for selection.
In an exciting development, the club will also field two Midweek Slam teams this season, one competing at a higher level and the other serving as a development side to nurture emerging talent.
Off the field, significant progress has been made as part of a wider transformation of the club. A newly formed committee, supported by dedicated sub-committees focusing on fundraising, development and facilities, is driving forward an ambitious vision. The club have benefitted from members bringing valuable professional experience to help turn plans into reality.
Chippingdale CC, who play on council-owned land at the Rotary on Upper Brighton Road, have long faced challenges with ageing facilities. While initial plans for a complete rebuild were explored, logistical and administrative hurdles led to a revised approach, refurbishing the existing pavilion instead.
This strategy builds on the legacy of the club’s late chairman, Paul Baker, and his wife Carol, whose tireless efforts laid the groundwork for redevelopment discussions with the council. In recognition of Paul’s more than 40 years of service to the club and local cricket, the pavilion will be officially renamed the Paul Baker Pavilion.
The first phase of the redevelopment – featuring a brand-new bar and social area – has been completed, thanks to the efforts of club members and support from local businesses. The new facilities will be officially opened on May 3.
Further phases of the project are set to focus on securing a long-term lease with Worthing Borough Council, alongside continued fundraising efforts. Planning permission was granted in late 2025 for an extension to the building and the construction of a new footpath, improving accessibility for disabled users.
The club are working closely with Sussex Cricket Foundation on a three-to-five-year development plan, which includes the full refurbishment of changing rooms to meet ECB standards. New sponsorship agreements have already provided a boost to fundraising efforts.
A key focus area for 2026 is the expansion of disability cricket – Chippingdale aim to become a local hub, with plans to host Sussex disability fixtures and develop partnerships with local schools.
As the new season approaches, the club continue to welcome players of all ages and abilities, reinforcing a commitment to community engagement and growth.
With ambitious plans, renewed energy and a strong foundation both on and off the field, Chippingdale CC are poised for another exciting chapter.