Cricket

South Berkeley’s Redwood Cricket Club Opens Its Doors to Newcomers with Free Sunday Games and Lessons

Free Sunday Cricket and Monthly Beginner Clinics at Grove Park

A new community cricket club in South Berkeley is tearing down barriers for anyone curious about the sport. Redwood Cricket Club has launched free Sunday games at Grove Park, with a specific promise to welcome people who have never held a bat or ball.

The club is open to all skill levels, from complete novices to seasoned players, and aims to create a casual, neighborly atmosphere. In addition to the weekly games, Redwood Cricket Club offers dedicated monthly lessons tailored for absolute beginners — a hands-on introduction to the basics of batting, bowling, and fielding.

Building a Broader Cricket Community

The initiative speaks to a growing grassroots interest in cricket in the Bay Area, moving the game beyond its reputation as a niche or elite sport. By setting up in a public park and removing financial and experience hurdles, the club hopes to attract a diverse mix of local residents — families, students, and professionals alike — who might otherwise never consider picking up the sport.

“We just want people to come and have fun,” a club organizer told Berkeleyside, noting that the Sunday games are as much about socializing as they are about athletics. The club provides a low-pressure environment where mistakes are part of the learning curve, and everyone gets a chance to bat and bowl.

Where and How to Join

The Sunday cricket sessions take place at Grove Park in South Berkeley, a community green space already known for its playground and open fields. Those interested can simply show up on a Sunday morning, and the monthly newcomer lessons are scheduled in advance — details are typically shared through the club’s social channels and local notice boards.

For a region where recreational cricket is still emerging, Redwood Cricket Club’s beginner-friendly model offers a clear entry point. Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan or someone just looking for a new weekend activity, the invitation is open: come see what cricket is all about in your own backyard.