Love Stevenage were delighted to speak with Stevenage Cricket Club’s Martin Nevill, on the success of being selected for the England Seniors Lion’s.
The England Seniors Lions, the national A team, serve as the stepping stone to the senior England team. They provide a platform for emerging talents to gain international experience and showcase their skills. The Lions’ schedule includes multi-day matches, limited-overs games, and various international tours.).
Martin Nevill’s inclusion in the England seniors Lions squad is a testament to his dedication and skill. His extensive experience, particularly in veteran cricket, has made him a valuable asset. Nevill’s journey reflects the importance of perseverance and passion in sport. His career, marked by significant achievements and leadership roles, culminates in this honour of representing the England Lions.
Reflecting on his cricketing journey, Nevill shares, “Being part of the England seniors Lions squad is a dream come true. It’s a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and love for the game. Playing for Stevenage Cricket Club has been a significant part of my life, and this achievement is as much theirs as it is mine.
Sport has been an integral part of my life since birth. Growing up, my dad played rugby for Welwyn Rugby Club in the winter and cricket in the summer. Naturally, I followed in his footsteps. My journey began in senior school and continued as I moved to Welwyn
Garden City, where I joined Hatfield Hyde Cricket Club, just across the fields. I played rugby at Welwyn until a broken leg ended my career. Cricket, however, became my mainstay. At Hatfield Hyde, I played for 25 years, captaining various teams and even serving as chairman for a time.
In 2003, work commitments led me to Stevenage, where I joined their cricket club. I started as the second team wicketkeeper and eventually began bowling again. Over several seasons, I captained the second team and served as Club Captain. My most memorable cricketing achievement was touring South Africa with the England Counties Over 50s team. Playing at Newlands in Cape Town with Table Mountain as a backdrop was an experience I’ll never forget.
Cricket also became a family affair. My children often accompanied me on Saturdays, with my youngest Jack, continuing to play throughout his school days. We even had the pleasure of playing in the same team several times, resulting in the memorable scoreline: “caught J. Nevill, bowled M. Nevill.”
Having represented Hertfordshire Over 50s for ten years, I moved to the Over 60s. Last season. In February 2023, I attended a training camp at the ECB facility in Loughborough and was selected to play for the Chairman’s XI against the tourists. Although I didn’t make the Ashes squad or the World Cup team in India, where we were runners-up to Australia, the experience was invaluable.
This season, my County captain nominated me again, leading to an invitation to one of two trial games. This year, England Over 60s have a series against Pakistan and will travel to Australia in November to defend the Grey Ashes. The England senior Lions also have an exciting lineup, including matches against the Vatican XI, Western Australia, and a triangular tournament with Wales and Scotland.”
The Road Ahead
The England Lions’ upcoming fixtures promise to be challenging and rewarding. The squad will test their mettle against formidable opponents, providing crucial experience for future England stars. For Martin Nevill, these matches represent not just personal achievement but also an opportunity to contribute to the team’s success.
“As I reflect on my journey, from playing at local clubs to representing my country,” continues Martin, “I realise the profound impact sport has had on my life. Cricket has given me countless memories, lifelong friendships, and invaluable life lessons. It’s heartening to see the next generation, including my children, embrace the sport with the same enthusiasm.
Being named to the England senior Lions squad is not just a personal milestone but a collective achievement for everyone who has supported me along the way. Stevenage Cricket Club, with its rich history and supportive community, has been a cornerstone of my cricketing journey. I look forward to the upcoming challenges and opportunities with the England Lions and hope to contribute meaningfully to the team’s success.”
For the latest updates on the England seniors website www.60/70cc.co.uk
