Stories of welcoming for Welcoming Week 2025 – Kensington Cricket Club
Published on 21 August 2025
Pictured from left to right: Udip, Satpal, Minkal, Sagar and Heera.
Kensington Cricket Club shares their story with us as part of a series celebrating the contributions of newcomers in our community for Welcoming Week (5 to 14 September 2025).
"We're all grown men but, when we play, we're just boys chasing the dream of being cricket stars!"
"We're a cricket team made up of players from different parts of India, now calling Whangārei home. Our club isn't just about sport, it's where we've built friendships, found our identity, and reconnected with the childhood joy of playing cricket.
"It's the love for the game that brought us together. We have many newcomers registered and, as a migrant sports team, we want to help others build a sense of community too. Everyone who loves cricket is welcome; there's no boss culture here.
"This year, we celebrated two big moments: three of our players were selected to represent the Northland Cricket Association. We also proudly won the Declaration Cup 2024/2025.
"To keep growing, we know we need better marketing and infrastructure facilities for our team. The community's response to our team has been great and we remain motivated to attract more members who can join us as we recognise the importance of everyone onboard.
"We'd love to see more young players and kids join us, like our youngest player, Karan, who was one to represent the Northland Cricket Association and makes his mark in every game.
"Our motto chat is 'Dil Maange More' which translates to 'the heart wants more'. More spirit, more passion, and more wins!
"We keep things light off the field too. As our team manager Sagar often jokes with our captain, 'Chill out, bro'. It's all part of the camaraderie that makes our club feel welcoming and fun — a place where everyone belongs."
Nau mai, haere mai – welcome to Whangārei, Kensington Cricket Club.
Welcoming Week is an annual event that brings people together to honour the cultures, stories and contributions of newcomers in our communities, including migrants, former refugees, international students and anyone who has recently made this place home.
Find out more about Welcoming Week, including events and activations to help mark the occasion and roll out the welcome mat:
Welcoming Week | Te Wiki o Manaaki