Anderson Cricket Camp Brings Sport to Kids

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

Cricket is the second most popular sport in the world, trailing only soccer, and is gaining popularity in Anderson with all age groups.

If the rate of popularity continues, it could surpass pickleball as the fastest growing sport in the area.

More than 55 kids, from preschoolers to high school students are taking part in this week’s Cricket Camp at the Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center.

It’s little surprise that the man who founded the Anderson Cricket Club two years ago is behind the effort to help local youth learn the sport.

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar’s efforts have led to Anderson being the only city in the state with a dedicated, named cricket field, and he has hosted tournaments in Anderson featuring teams from as far away as Atlanta, Charlotte and Charleston. He was surprised at the turnout for the first camp, and said he hopes the effort continues to bring more support and fans for the sport.

“This idea to have young kids who wanted to come out and play cricket has been on my mind for two years,” said Kumar. “We had to do it.”

He said many of the kids who have not played cricket have been exposed to the sport from family and television and already love it.

The camp continues through next week at 6:30 p.m. on field seven at the sports complex.