North Balwyn Combined Cricket Club, also known as the Balwyn Saints and Blasters Cricket Club, is an amateur cricket club located in Balwyn & North Balwyn, in the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The club prides itself on being the home of cricket for everyone in Balwyn and welcomes players of all abilities, ages, backgrounds, and experience levels.
The Balwyn Saints Cricket Club offers various formats of cricket, including both turf and synthetic cricket. Players have the opportunity to participate in both two-day and one-day matches, ensuring that they can bat and bowl every week. The club is particularly proud of its synthetic ground at Balwyn Park, which is widely regarded as the best in the East. With picturesque tree-lined surroundings and excellent club rooms with a balcony overlooking the ground, it provides a fantastic setting for cricket.
Membership at the Balwyn Saints Cricket Club offers more than just cricket. The club has a strong social environment, and after the game, players can head upstairs for a refreshing drink and a free barbeque. This camaraderie and friendly atmosphere are integral to the club's ethos, and it ensures that players not only enjoy their time on the field but also off it.
The club fields various teams in the Eastern Cricket Association (ECA) competition. On Saturdays and Sundays, senior turf teams, synthetic limited-over competition teams, and Sunday vets teams compete in their respective divisions. For juniors, the Balwyn Blasters field teams in the ECA Junior competition, catering to age groups ranging from Under 10s to Under 18s. The club also offers girls' cricket for all ages and participates in the Woolworths Blasters programme.
In addition to cricket, the Balwyn Saints Cricket Club hosts events and activities throughout the year. These include their annual Trivia Night, where members can enjoy a night of fun and frivolity, and the club's sponsorship with Bendigo Bank ensures ongoing support and financial assistance.
Pre-season training is an important part of preparing for the upcoming season. The club holds training sessions at various times and locations, offering convenience for members. These sessions take place at indoor sports facilities in Hawthorn East and Thornbury and are an excellent opportunity for players to improve their skills and fitness.
Overall, North Balwyn Combined Cricket Club is a welcoming and inclusive club that offers cricket opportunities for players of all ages and abilities. With its exceptional facilities, vibrant social environment, and commitment to player development, it provides a fantastic community for cricket enthusiasts in the Balwyn area.