West Norfolk gives positive response to launch of Roaring Twenties

The launch of the Roaring Twenties – a new T20 format to be played on a Saturday across West Norfolk – has received an encouraging response.

Individual cricketers and clubs have come forward to pledge their support to the concept of introducing T20 cricket on a Saturday afternoon.

As revealed in the Lynn News, the idea to revolutionise the game with a ‘football model’ has not been designed to compete with existing league structures.

The Roaring Twenties is the brainchild of Colin King from the Mid Norfolk Sunday League.

Mr King said: “I have received nothing but positive reactions: not one negative email, text or phone call received so far.

“I am actively compiling a database of all the people, mainly former players, who have expressed an interest, so that, when we are ready to go in July, I can reach everyone with a group email and text. That will keep things simple.

“The first immediate reaction came from Lewis Denmark, cricket development director of the Norfolk Cricket Board, who has proved to be very helpful and supportive.”

Mr King added: “A major obstacle has now been removed because I have concluded agreements with Terrington St Clement and Grimston for the use of their grounds.

“I see this as vitally important because it means that we can offer 20 over cricket on a Saturday to be played on properly prepared pitches. This is a total game changer and so exciting.

“I believe that this will actually materialise so I have taken out Public Liability Insurance (£5m) to protect players and myself. Player safety and welfare is paramount.”

Mr King, who revealed that Hunts County Bats have donated all the match balls for 2022 for free, would like to see a number of former grounds across West Norfolk, such as Hunstanton, Gayton and Massingham, resurrected for the new project.