FANS are reeling after it was revealed County Cricket may soon be played away from the city’s iconic New Road due to ‘unprecedented’ flooding and concerns over the long-term future of its famous tenants.
Chiefs at Worcestershire County Cricket Club have revealed it is exploring every option, including a move away from New Road, in a bid to ensure the long-term future of the club.
‘Record levels’ of flooding have already forced the club to play their first two home games of the new County Championship season in Kidderminster, the first of which gets under way today (Friday) against Durham.
New Road, which holds around 5,500 people, has been Worcestershire’s home since 1896, but floods have blighted the Faithful City, and the cricket club, with increasing regularity in recent years.
According to the club, this has brought into focus the ‘very real issues’ regarding their sustainability.
A statement released on Monday by Worcestershire’s board said it would be looking into options over the next few months so they could provide the membership and key stakeholders with a plan.
Fans took to social media to voice their opinions.
Keith Hunt said all flood alleviation possibilities should be investigated before leaving as, were the move to happen, the world’s ‘most beautiful and famous cricketing view’ would be lost forever.
Andrew Ching said leaving New Road ‘could be painful’ but added the most important thing was the survival of Worcestershire County Cricket Club.
Mark Fincher said the club’s new ground, were they to move, would have to fit in with how New Road looks now.
He added it was essential the club got the decision right as he didn’t want a situation similar to when Worcester City football club left St George’s Lane in 2013, which saw them homeless for around a decade and contributed to them dropping three divisions due to ‘excessive costs.’
