Today we celebrate 130 years since Emerald Headingley Stadium first opened its doors to the cricket adoring public.

In the late 1880s a group of businessmen and sports-lovers, under the chairmanship of Lord Hawke, decided to take the initiative to equip Leeds with a suitable ground on which cricket of a high standard could take place. The group formed the Leeds Cricket, Football and Athletic Company Ltd and purchased Lot 17a on the Cardigan estate for £25,000. The site had already been used for cricket and rugby and the area became organised for the use of six sports – bowls, cycling and tennis in addition to the three mentioned in the company’s title.

The pavilion and main stand were both built in 1889; designed by the firm of Smith and Tweddle they cost £30,300. The cricket ground was officially opened on May 27, 1890 when Leeds CC played Scarborough CC and the first rugby match took place in September of the same year.

Learn more about the history of Headingley and The Yorkshire County Cricket Club

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