City Hall Celebrates 150 years of the Historic Essex County Cricket Club

On the 25^th February, Unmesh Desai AM hosted an event at City Hall attended by high profile former cricket players, including ex-England cricket captain Graham Gooch.

The event, also attended by young cricketers from across London, was in celebration of the 150^th anniversary of the historic Essex County Cricket Club, commemorating a century and a half of cricketing success and community outreach across Essex and East London.

The purpose of the evening was to shine light on Essex Cricket Club Foundation which has long played a leading role in youth engagement for schools across East London. This has led to more inclusivity in the sport for children of all backgrounds.

The evening also reflects efforts to reduce health inequalities across London. This is in light of the Greater London Authority and the Mayor of London’s commitment to transforming the lives of young Londoners through investment in sporting opportunities.

As the club looks to its next chapter, its 150-year legacy stands as a reminder that sport unites communities and changes lives.

Unmesh Desai AM, London Assembly Member for City and East, said;  

“A club with such a rich history like Essex Cricket Club should be proud of all the work they have done to promote sporting opportunities for young people in East London.

At a time when heath inequalities are rising across London, it is more important than ever that we ensure we close this gap.

As an avid cricket fan, it was a personal pleasure to host this event and welcome such esteemed former players.”

Graham Gooch, former England cricket captain and member of Essex Cricket Club’s Board of Trustees, said;

“It was a pleasure to attend such a great event and celebrate the long and successful history of Essex Cricket Club.

I want to thank the Unmesh and the Greater London Authority for their role in such a joyous event.”

Arfan Akram, Strategic Lead for East London & Head of Player Liaison at Essex County Cricket Club, said;

“We are thrilled to celebrate 150 years of Essex Cricket this year, and it is essential that we mark this milestone with an event right here in East London, a huge part of Essex County Cricket Club’s history.

“This milestone is not just about the Club’s rich history, but also about the community, the players, and the fans who have supported us through every generation.

“Events like this remind us of the power of cricket to bring people together, inspire young talent, and create memories that last a lifetime.”