Opening Season Lunch Yorkshire Cricket Club

​As part of our ongoing commitment to engaging with the local community and fostering relationships within the industry, Edward Park, director at PARKdesigned Architects, recently attended the Yorkshire County Cricket Club's Opening Season Lunch on 27th March 2025. This esteemed event, held at the iconic Headingley Stadium in Leeds, marked the commencement of the 2025 cricket season and provided a platform for supporters and professionals to connect and discuss the future of Yorkshire cricket.​

The luncheon was a gathering of cricket enthusiasts, business leaders, and members of the local community, all united in their support for Yorkshire cricket. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from members of both the men's and women's playing squads as they previewed the upcoming season. The men's team, under the new leadership of Head Coach Anthony McGrath, is set to return to Division One of the Rothesay County Championship. Simultaneously, Richard Pyrah's Yorkshire Women's team embarks on their inaugural season as a professional outfit, marking a significant milestone in the club's history. ​

A highlight of the event was the official announcement of the men's team captaincy. Jonny Bairstow, a seasoned player with a deep-rooted passion for the game, was appointed as the new captain. Bairstow expressed his pride and enthusiasm for leading the team, stating, "It's something as a young boy you dream about." His appointment is anticipated to bring renewed energy and focus to the squad as they face the challenges of the upcoming season. ​

Edward Park's invitation to this event came from Alan Wood & Partners, a distinguished firm of consulting civil and structural engineers established in 1968. With six offices across the UK, Alan Wood & Partners have extensive experience in the design and development of various facilities, including commercial offices, educational institutions, and leisure facilities. Their expertise aligns with PARKdesigned Architects' commitment to creating innovative and functional spaces within the commercial, waste, and energy sectors. ​

Reflecting on the luncheon, Edward Park remarked, "Attending the Opening Season Lunch was a fantastic opportunity to engage with fellow professionals and cricket enthusiasts. The event highlighted the strong community spirit in Leeds and the shared passion for cricket that brings us all together. It was particularly inspiring to hear from the players and coaching staff about their aspirations for the season ahead."​

PARKdesigned Architects, based in Leeds, continues to support local initiatives and events that contribute to the cultural and social fabric of the city. Our ethos remains steadfast: to create exciting spaces that please, delivered on budget and on time. Engaging with events like the Opening Season Lunch not only reinforces our commitment to the community but also provides valuable insights and connections that inform our architectural practice.​

As the 2025 cricket season unfolds, we extend our best wishes to Yorkshire County Cricket Club and look forward to witnessing their progress and achievements. The dedication and enthusiasm displayed at the Opening Season Lunch are indicative of a promising season ahead, and we are proud to be part of a community that rallies behind its teams with such fervour.

James Park