On Thursday, 1 May, the Blue Tigers, a team made up of young Afghan asylum seekers, defeated a team fielded by Ipswich School by 68 runs in their debut match, capping a six-month community project. The newly-formed team scored 144 all out before dismissing their opponents for 76.
Why it matters: These young people have faced unimaginable journeys to reach the UK, arriving without family and trying to rebuild their lives from scratch. Cricket gives them a safe space to integrate into their new community.
The bigger picture: The project is part of Build Aspiration Through Sport (BATS), designed to showcase community development through partnerships between local organisations.
"It's great to see this project reach this point," said Anton Dixon, founder of Sport Sense. "I can remember when we first met the boys at the YMCA, and they were probably thinking 'Why are these guys here?'"
What's next: A film showcase telling the story of the Blue Tigers project will take place in the coming weeks. The team will continue with further cricket fixtures, supported by local clubs offering training and team opportunities.
The project began in November through a partnership between Ipswich Community Media, Sport Sense, Community Praxis, the YMCA and local cricket clubs including Copdock, Chantry, Kesgrave and East Bergholt.
"Our initial goal was to provide these guys with a sense of community and help with integration into life in the UK," Dixon added. "It has blossomed into something so much more."
The details: Every week, the young asylum seekers come together to train, build friendships and grow in confidence. Beyond cricket, the project engages them in conversations about societal pressures, consent and other important topics.
"What has been really inspiring has been the help and support from the community - it's heartwarming to see so many people willing to help," Dixon said.
The bottom line: The Blue Tigers project demonstrates how sport can provide vulnerable young people with more than just a game, offering them a pathway to integration, friendship and hope in their new home.
