Middlesex Cricket is proud to announce a landmark moment for the Club and its female cricketers, as the new home of women’s and girls’ cricket at the QEII Ground, Swyncombe Avenue, was played on for the very first time on Monday 1st, September.
Five Middlesex, including three under-18 players – including First team regulars, Riva Pindoria and Georgia Irving – joined coaches, Harry Podmore and Charlie Hobday for a high-quality two-hour training session, carefully dodging the rain showers to mark this historic occasion. For those taking part, it was more than a training day: it was the start of a new era.
During the day, Middlesex coaches and staff engaged players in discussions about the current condition of the pavilion and facilities, exploring their aspirations for a redeveloped pavilion and changing rooms. Player feedback will be integral to shaping the Club’s masterplan, which will soon be discussed with town planners at the London Borough of Hounslow.
The ground, secured by Middlesex Cricket in 2024 following GSK’s generous donation of the freehold, has been bedding in this summer after the fine turf construction in August last year. The first full playing season will commence in 2026, with hybrid pitches to be installed later this year.
Josh Knappett, Project Lead, said:
“We are delighted to see the girls on the ground today. This ground has been secured and invested in primarily for their use, and it’s amazing to see these players train together, preparing for the next level, and progressing their journey with Middlesex.”
Harry Podmore, Assistant Coach of the Women’s side, added:
“Facilities like this are essential if we are serious about giving our female players the tools they need to excel. This is about raising standards, driving ambition, and moving closer to becoming a Tier 1 side.”
First team regular, Riva Pindoria, said after training:
“It was an exciting day to see the ground and the vision for women’s cricket, with its potential to become a top class venue. The plans for the facilities really show that women’s and girls’ cricket is the main focus for the future which is inspiring.”
The QEII Ground is a bold step in Middlesex Cricket’s long-term strategy to grow the women’s and girls’ game. It creates much-needed capacity, provides high-quality playing surfaces, and, in time, will offer first-class facilities worthy of the players who represent the county.
As plans progress, Middlesex will be inviting members, stakeholders, businesses, and supporters to join the journey. Opportunities to support the redevelopment of the pavilion and facilities will be shared in the coming year, offering a chance to make a lasting impact on the future of women’s and girls’ cricket in Middlesex.
For now, the sight of Middlesex players walking onto the QEII Ground for the first time is a powerful symbol of progress – one that reflects pride in the present and optimism for the future.
