CCS welcomed a distinguished panel from Gloucestershire County Cricket Club for our penultimate speaker meeting of March, providing members with an engaging and informative evening.
The panel featured Gloucestershire legend, CCS Vice President and favourite, David Graveney OBE, who stepped in at short notice for Jon Lewis, alongside Peter Matthews (GCCC Executive Chair) and re-signed accomplished seam bowler Craig Miles.
David, as always proved to be a hugely experienced, articulate and measured speaker. Drawing on his time as chairman of the England Test selectors, he spoke with authority about leadership, decision-making and the importance of clear processes which he has put to good effect at GCCC. He explained how structured systems guide everything at Gloucestershire, from the appointment of a groundsman to the role and responsibilities of a Director of Cricket. His experience as a selector also allowed him to reflect thoughtfully on evaluating players across counties and understanding the wider domestic game.
Peter spoke with confidence and optimism about the future of the club. While cricketing questions were largely directed towards David, Peter provided valuable insight into the commercial realities of running a county cricket club. He discussed the impact of The Hundred, the importance of the Cheltenham Cricket Festival, and the role of domestic and international fixtures in the club’s financial stability. He noted that as few as ten good uninterrupted days of cricket in Cheltenham or Bristol can make a significant difference financially to the club’s season and profitability.
The lively Q&A session provided members with fascinating updates, including how investment from The Hundred has helped GCCC become debt-free and contributed to the funding of approximately £3m of infrastructure improvements at the County Ground, Bristol. These infrastructure projects will provide upgrades and the modernisation of player and officials’ facilities. This will help ensuring Nevil Road remains compliant for major international events and safeguarding its status as an international ground beyond 2031.
Craig added an insightful player’s perspective, speaking candidly about the physical demands, scrutiny and career challenges of professional cricket especially moving between several counties.
Thanks are due as usual to Ian Randall for guiding the discussion with thoughtful questions, helping to create a thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening evening for all CCS members.
Paddy Murphy / Sushil Sidhu – Mar 2026
