A newly elected Committee signals a fresh wave of leadership and ambition for one of the Midlands' largest and most historic cricket clubs.
With a strong foundation and a clear focus on development, inclusivity and delivering success across all areas of the club, the new Committee has already begun work since the AGM took place on Thursday, March 6.
The 2025 Executive Committee
The new committee reflects a blend of experience and fresh perspectives across various roles essential to the Club's operations:
Chairman & Cricket Chairman: Alistair Lyttle
Secretary: Alan Wild
Treasurer: Greg Easter
Bar Chairman: Gary Baldwin
Grounds & Facilities Chairman: John Miller`
Women & Girls Chairman: Emma Rankin
Safeguarding Officer: Debbie Plant
Membership Representatives: Lewis Baines and Vish Naik
This leadership team underscores HCC's commitment to fostering inclusivity, with Emma Rankin leading the ever-expanding opportunities for women and girls in cricket at Harborne. Meanwhile, safeguarding remains a top priority under Debbie Plant’s expert guidance, working to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all members.
Preparing for the 2025 season
HCC enters the new season with momentum, having built up a reputation as one of the Midlands' premier cricket institutions. The 1st XI achieved a remarkable feat in 2024 by securing promotion to the top division of the Birmingham League for the upcoming season. This historic accomplishment marks the team's return to the highest level of club cricket for the first time since 1999, ending a 25-year absence from the top flight.
For the 2025 season, we take our well-deserved place among the elites of Premier Division One, including Berkswell, Knowle & Dorridge, Moseley, and reigning champions Smethwick. This promotion presents an exciting challenge for the Club, and an opportunity to test their skills against some of the best league cricketers in the country.
As the Club prepares for the 2025 season, supporters and members can look forward to high-quality cricket and fierce competition across all sides. The 1st XI’s promotion not only brings prestige but also offers a platform for further growth and success in years to come.
The youth section continues to thrive, with approximately 250 young cricketers participating in coaching programs and competitive matches. This reflects the Club's dedication to nurturing talent and growing the sport at grassroots levels.
Vision for the Future
Under Alistair Lyttle's leadership, the Club aims to enhance its competitive edge while maintaining its strong community focus.
There are already plans in place to develop Club facilities, with John Miller overseeing improvements as Grounds and Facilities Chairman. Additionally, Gary Baldwin will play a crucial role in enhancing the social experience at the Club as Bar Chairman, ensuring that members and visitors alike enjoy a welcoming atmosphere that complements the Club's vibrant cricketing spirit.
Emma Rankin’s leadership in women’s cricket will be pivotal in expanding opportunities for female players, building on recent successes in creating new teams and training programs. This aligns perfectly with the Club's broader vision of inclusivity and diversity in cricket.
HCC stands ready to write the next chapter in its storied history. With a blend of competitive spirit and community engagement, the Club is poised for success both on and off the field. This dynamic new leadership team is ready to power the Club into a future filled with optimism, development and cricketing excellence.
We invite all members, supporters, and the wider community to join us in celebrating this exciting new era for HCC, as we strive to make the 2025 season one to remember.