Criced Cymru / Cricket Wales: Facing the Future

Tell us what you think of this episodeIn this week’s episode we talk to new Chair of Criced Cymru Jennifer Owen Adams as well as it’s CEO Leshia Hawkins. Jennifer begins the chat by talking about herself and her interests in sport in general and cricket in particular. Leshia brings us up to date with the development of the recreational game under the shadow of coronavirus and the successes that Criced Cymru has had in reaching new people, in particular girls and women. After a brief discussion of how Leshia and Jennifer are developing their relationship we talk about how the organisation has responded along with Glamorgan to the issues raised by the experiences of Azeem Rafiq in the professional game.  They both underline the ongoing work that is taking place around issues of equality, diversity and inclusion in Wales and the importance of changing behaviours through an open and honest conversation around these matters. Jennifer talks about the need to be aware of the cricket that takes place in the rural areas of Wales and trying to improve the access to the game in the rural parts of Wales.  Leshia reinforced the unique challenges that Criced Cymru faces with the contrasts between urban and rural experiences and the need to incorporate into their work issues around poverty and the welsh language. The ability of Criced Cymru to achieve its goals depends crucially on the ongoing engagement of an army of volunteers.  Jennifer talks passionately about this being a central focus for her in the coming months and years. Leshia outlines the plan for a women’s cup competition in the 2022 season and how important this is to encouraging young girls to take an interest in the game. Both our guests talk about being a woman in their role and whether that is important or relevant in what they do and they both talk about their cricketing highlights of the last 18 months or so. Both talk about what they enjoy doing outside of administrating the game and they finish by saying a little bit in the welsh language !! Do check out their website here: https://cricketwales.org.uk/ To see the equity, diversity and inclusion plan drawn up Criced Cymru and Glamorgan CCC go here: bit.ly/3J61rY2 bit.ly/3q2rUOW