Despite the heavy rains over the past few days, progress on the new Cricket Centre continues at pace. With the project now nearing completion, excitement is building as this outstanding facility takes shape. The finish line is in sight, and we look forward to seeing generations of Andreans benefit from this significant addition to our sporting landscape.
Seven months after the sod-turning ceremony in November 2025, the vision for a state-of-the-art indoor cricket facility is rapidly becoming a reality. Situated adjacent to the Bedford Street cricket nets, the centre represents an important investment in the future of cricket at College and a tangible expression of our commitment to the Sporting Promise.
Once completed, the Indoor Cricket Centre will provide year-round training opportunities, ensuring that players can continue to develop their skills regardless of weather conditions. The facility will feature four full-length cricket lanes with bowler’s run-ups engineered to minimise joint stress and maintain consistent stride length, a batting area designed to replicate realistic spin, pace and bounce, and premium surfaces built for durability and performance. Additional amenities will include toilets, a meeting room, mezzanine level and storeroom.
As the building enters its final stages, it is fitting to reflect on the sod-turning ceremony that marked the beginning of the project. The occasion brought together pupils, staff,
Old Andreans and members of the wider school community in celebration of a facility that will serve College for generations to come. In a symbolic moment, Arthur Short (1st XI Cricket Captain 1965 and Protea 1970/71), accompanied by his son Lloyd Short (OA 1993), turned the first sod, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in the history of College cricket.
Today, that vision is clearly taking shape.
Beyond the bricks and mortar, the Indoor Cricket Centre represents a significant investment in the future of College cricket. It reflects our commitment to providing boys with opportunities to develop their talents in an environment that supports both excellence and enjoyment of the game.
We look forward to welcoming the first players through its doors later this year and to seeing generations of Andrean cricketers benefit from this outstanding facility. As we continue our journey towards 2030 and the celebration of 175 years of Growing Good Men, the Indoor Cricket Centre stands as a visible reminder of College’s commitment to building for the future while honouring its proud sporting heritage.
Dr Bronwen May