New outdoor cricket nets are being constructed at Wānaka Recreation Centre in an initiative funded by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and the Luggate Albion Cricket Club (LACC).

The four-bay nets, in combination with the new wicket installed at the centre last year, will provide dedicated facilities to support cricket in the Upper Clutha.

LACC is excited to be part of the new facility which will help cater for the growing number of junior cricketers.

“We would like to make special mention of our major donor, the Andrew Falloon Charitable Trust,” an LACC spokesperson said. “Its contribution has driven the project forward and the new nets wouldn’t be ready for next season without its support.”

They acknowledged the help of Gini Falloon and the trust’s members for their support and encouragement.

“We’re looking forward to starting next season with top-class training facilities.”

Wānaka Recreation Centre manager Allan Wainwright said he was delighted QLDC could help grow the game locally and get more people enjoying the sound of leather on willow.

“We’ve got a vibrant sporting community right now and the game of cricket is becoming more popular. It will be great for budding Black Caps and White Ferns to have a place to practice and then head inside for a swim or a soak in the hot pool to soothe their tired muscles.

“We’d like to thank the club, the trust and everyone involved so far for their contribution to the project, and we’re looking forward to officially opening the nets before next season.”

The cricket nets are expected to be finished in time for the 2022-2023 season.

PHOTO: Supplied