Skipper Ben Harris Talks Promotions, Team Spirit, and Bright Futures on BBC Radio Norfolk
On Friday 1 August, Thornham Cricket Club captain Ben Harris joined Nick Bowler live on BBC Radio Norfolk’s Talking Cricket to discuss what Bowler described as a “landmark season” for the club’s 1st XI.
Harris opened by confirming the significance of this year’s achievements, proudly noting that for the first time in club history, TCC has been offered promotion—bypassing Division 6 entirely and going straight into Division 5. While Munford remain the runaway leaders, Harris was optimistic about the final stretch of the season. With five matches left, he reminded listeners that “cricket is a funny sport… who knows what could happen!”
Still, Harris kept the conversation grounded. “We’re not getting ahead of ourselves,” he said. “It’s one game at a time.”
A Confident Step Up
When asked whether the team was prepared for the challenge of a higher division, Harris didn’t hesitate. “It was a no-brainer,” he said. “We’ve got a good side, and we want to challenge ourselves.”
With second place still up for grabs and a crucial fixture against Wretham on the horizon, the captain remains focused. “There’s everything still to play for.”
A Team United
Bowler touched on the recent match against Denver, which saw Thornham’s players shine once again. Harris gave credit to Denver for putting up a good fight but singled out Barney for a fluid innings and Adam, who was “on fire.” Most importantly, Harris emphasised the team’s depth. “It’s not just about one or two individuals anymore—it’s a real team effort.”
He acknowledged that Thornham has been on a roll in recent years, with previous promotions under their belt and a core group of tight-knit players who consistently deliver under pressure.
Strength Across All Teams
It’s not just the 1st XI seeing success. Bowler highlighted strong performances by the Club’s 2nd XI, and Harris echoed the sentiment. The Club’s Sunday XI, described by Harris as a development squad, is also gaining strength. Featuring a mix of Saturday players and emerging talent, the team is learning fast after stepping up a level following a successful previous season.
Junior Cricket on the Rise
One of the most exciting developments at TCC has been the growth of its junior programme. Harris said the club has been “genuinely surprised” by the scale of interest. Now in its third or fourth year, the initiative sees around 40 children training every Monday evening, split into two sessions:
- 5.30 – 6.30 pm: Softball for ages 3–10
- 6.30 – 8.00 pm: Older junior cricketers
All training is free of charge, and the club recently celebrated a major milestone: fielding an Under-15 team for the first time in its history.
Growth On and Off the Pitch
The conversation closed with Harris reflecting on exciting developments beyond the boundary. The New Sports Pavilion, made possible through the hard work of the club and Thornham Village Hall’s fundraising efforts, marks a new chapter. “The old hut served us well,” Harris said, “but this new pavilion reflects the growth and ambition of the club.”
For those eager to follow the Club’s journey—on and off the pitch—updates are available via Thornham Village Hall and Thornham Cricket Club social media, as well as on this website.
If you’d like to support the development of the New Sports Pavilion, you can be part of this exciting project — the walls are rising, but we still need your support to see it through. Every donation truly makes a difference! Click here to find out more about Thornham Cricket Club and how you can help.
