Cricket at Nelson College dates back nearly as far as the school itself, making it one of the oldest cricket-playing schools in the country. Over the years, Nelson College has produced numerous Black Caps, Central Districts players, Nelson Griffins, and age-group representatives — a testament to the school’s strong cricketing programme and clear development pathways which is now led by Brad Norris who directs the Cricket programme.
Alongside regular Saturday cricket, students benefit from a wide range of school-based opportunities thanks to Nelson College’s long-standing traditions and strong connections with other cricketing schools around New Zealand.
The 1st XI competes annually in several prestigious fixtures, including the Quadrangular Tournament, the Canterbury Tour, the Willows Match, the Darcy Cup, and the 1st XI Cup. The team’s management continues to build relationships to provide even more opportunities for our players. Plans are also underway for an international cricket and cultural tour to either Australia or Sri Lanka, with further details to be announced as planning progresses.
Coaching development remains a key focus, and we are fortunate to have the support of notable figures such as Chris Cairns, Michael Parlane, and Garry MacDonald, among others, who have generously shared their knowledge and time with our players this season.
Other Nelson College teams participate in the Marlborough Exchange, Tasman Secondary Schools (TSS) 2nd XI Tournament, TSS Junior Tournament, and the Year 9 Quadrangular Tournament, as well as additional fixtures against local schools.
Currently, the school fields six registered teams in the local Nelson Cricket competitions:
- 1st XI – Premier Men’s Competition
- 2nd XI – Men’s 2nd Grade Competition
- Senior XI – Men’s 3rd Grade Competition
- Two Junior Teams – 4th and 5th Grade Competitions
Key Information
Registration:
- Takes place in Term 3 and again in Term 1.
- New students joining in Term 1 should register in the Sports Office as soon as school begins.
Costs:
- 1st XI – $310
- 2nd XI & Senior Teams – $170
- Junior Teams – $130
- Year 9 (Term 1) – $65
Additional costs may apply for TSS events, interschool fixtures, and away trips.
Training Schedule (Top Field Nets or Old Gym Indoor Nets):
Thursday: 3.30 pm – 2nd XI
Monday: 3.30 pm – Junior Sky XI | 5 pm – Senior XI Falcons
Tuesday: 5 pm – Senior XI Raptors
Wednesday: 3.30 pm – 1st XI | 5.30 pm – Year 9 XI Blue