TWO former rival cricket clubs have entered a new era by merging.

Burnham Sports Cricket Club and South Woodham Ferrers, past rivals in the T Rippon Mid Essex Leagues are now under the banner of South Woodham and Burnham Cricket Club.

The club will field four Saturday teams with matches played at their two bases - Millfields in Burnham, and Saltcoats Park in South Woodham. 

There will be cricket for juniors and regular training sessions for youngsters aged between seven and 12.

The merger is hoped to be mutually beneficial for both clubs, which are about 15 minutes apart by car.

A formal agreement was made over the winter after players of both clubs were invited to vote and unanimously chose to link up.

It is also hoped the partnership will help cricket in the area thrive.

A new club badge has been designed, incorporating features of previous emblems, and new playing kits created. 

Sponsors including Elachi Indian Restaurant, the Railway public house, Mister Gees Foundation and Clay Ratnage and Co have shown support.

Club chairman Chris Hawkins said: “This merger is hugely exciting and we look forward to seeing what the next months and years bring as we all begin a new chapter. 

“It made perfect sense for the two clubs to join forces and everyone has been fabulously supportive and positive. 

“Our four teams will cater for all standards of cricketer, plus there will be Sunday cricket, and we are committed to sharing our great sport with juniors who are keen to give it a go.” 

The club is scheduled to play its first match, a friendly against a Brentwood XI, away on Saturday, April 20.

An inter-club match has been arranged for Saturday, April 27, at Saltcoats, with the league campaign getting underway on May 4. 

The 1st XI will be captained by all-rounder Jamie Hamilton, with the first fixture being at home to Hatfield Peverel. 

The club has a new website at swandb.play-cricket.com/home, and is on X.

Anyone interested in joining the club or wanting more information should contact Tom Pritchard at tompritchard2019@gmail.com.