Last Innings for the Voneus Village Cup

The final showdown of the Voneus Village Cup is just days away, and we can’t wait to welcome Foxton Granta CC, Stayley CC, and their spirited supporters to the hallowed turf of Lord’s. 

This year we’ve been proud to work with Read CC as our focus club, a club steeped in history and heart. Their legendary groundsman Gary O’Connor, an award-winner, former Village Cup allrounder, and lifelong servant of the club will have the honour of ringing the pavilion bell to start play. 

“Being at the Home of Cricket is what anybody connected with the sport dreams of,” Gary said. “The Village Cup has always been something the club really enjoy playing in.” 

Our journey with Read CC began with a junior masterclass led by Voneus Village Cup ambassador Lydia Greenway, inspiring the next generation. Captain Will Wrathall summed up the club’s spirit perfectly on BBC Lancashire’s Inside Edge: 

“They just love playing cricket. We’ve got a really good bunch of lads who enjoy playing with each other.” 

From their very first Village Cup entry in 1972 to today, Read CC continues to embody everything village cricket stands for. Their clubhouse and ground, now powered by ultrafast Voneus broadband, is a true community hub, bringing family and friends together through matches, events, and celebrations. 

Voneus senior communications manager Ashley Scott said, “Read CC radiates community spirit and sits proudly at the heart of village life. This is exactly why we’re so proud to be part of the competition, championing rural communities is at the core of what we do.” 

“We’re also thrilled to honour Pentyrch Cricket Club of South Wales as this year’s Voneus Community Club Legends for their extraordinary community work, from youth and women’s cricket to village festivals and innovative initiatives like their junior committee. 

“This award belongs to every player, volunteer, coach, family member and supporter,” said Pentyrch club representative Lucy O’Leary. “Cricket is more than just a game—it’s a way of bringing people together.” 

Voneus director of deployment Ceri John added, “Pentyrch shows how powerful a local club can be at the heart of village life. Every club that entered has reminded us how cricket creates belonging, lifts people up and makes communities stronger.” 

This Sunday at Lord’s, we’ll celebrate champions on and off the field, from the finalists who’ve battled all season to the clubs whose spirit strengthens villages everywhere. 

Here’s to cricket, community, and the unforgettable magic of the Voneus Village Cup.