Sussex Cricket celebrates Diwali

Sussex Cricket Celebrates a Vibrant Diwali at 

The 1st Central County Ground

Saturday 11 October saw the Dean Wilson Boundary Rooms at The 1st Central County Ground illuminated with colour, music, and togetherness as Sussex Cricket hosted its second annual Diwali celebration — a joyful evening that brought the local community together while raising vital funds for the Sussex Cricket Foundation.

The event welcomed 135 guests, including members of the local community, Sussex Cricket staff, representatives from the Sussex Cricket Foundation, and Sussex Cricket Chair Jon Filby, who all joined in the festivities marking the Festival of Lights.

Guests enjoyed an evening filled with delicious food, vibrant performances, and a true spirit of celebration.

The night not only celebrated cultural diversity across Sussex but also supported the important work of the Sussex Cricket Foundation, whose initiatives use the power of cricket to make a positive difference in local lives.

Jon Filby welcomed guests and thanked them for attending, highlighting the importance of the Diwali celebration to Sussex Cricket. He reflected on how the event connects the organisation's proud heritage — as the county that produced KS Ranjitsinhji, the first non-white cricketer to play for England — with its vision for the future: making cricket the most inclusive sport in the country.

Speaking on the event, Foundation Trustee, Anju Chauhan said: “The event was such a spectacular evening, bringing together people across communities, sport and culture, all of which resonate deeply with the spirit of Sussex Cricket.” 

Following the success of last year’s inaugural Diwali celebration, this year’s event built on that momentum to create an even more memorable experience. 

The Foundation plans to continue hosting the event as a highlight of the Sussex Cricket community calendar, strengthening connections and celebrating the county’s rich cultural tapestry.

Sussex Cricket’s People Director, Sam Holder, added: “Sussex Cricket’s second Diwali celebration was a truly joyful evening, filled with colour, music, and togetherness. 

“It was wonderful to see our community come together to share in the spirit of light, friendship, and celebration — a reflection of what Sussex Cricket is all about.”

If anyone is interested in sponsoring next year’s Diwali event, please contact Gary Wallis-Tayler, Community Cricket Director, at gary.wallis-tayler@sussexcricket.co.uk