Howzat! Tribute to stalwart

Richard Atkins (left) was excited to meet Black Caps World Cup stars Corey Anderson and Ross Taylor yesterday.

A cricket stalwart has had his place in Taradale Cricket Club's history cemented.

Richard Atkins' 66 years as a club player and coach was celebrated at a service at the weekend.

Taradale Cricket Club recreates a 1904 photograph with club stalwart Richard Atkins (centre). Photo / Paul Taylor

The 80-year-old was surprised to meet Black Caps World Cup stars Corey Anderson, Ross Taylor, Trent Boult and Tom Latham at the event, held to celebrate his dedication to the club.

And he was almost bowled over when club members dressed in authentic period uniforms to re-create his favourite photo - the 1904 Taradale cricket team shot. He has been a club member since 1950.

Another surprise was the makeover of the 138-year-old club rooms for the occasion, which included an 11m Wall of Fame to house his collection of club memorabilia.

To cap the celebration, the Black Caps played a match with replica 1904 cricket bats made especially for the day.

Mr Atkins was "overwhelmed" by the tribute to him, club secretary Fiona Hewetson said.

"He was quite taken back."

Mrs Hewetson said it was great to be able to give something back to someone who had given the club so much. Mr Atkins played, coached, and fundraised for the club.

Mrs Hewetson said the club was privileged to be able to display Mr Atkins' memorabilia and preserve the club's history.

The Taradale Cricket Club was established in 1877 which makes it the oldest cricket club in Hawke's Bay and one of the oldest clubs in the country.