In a world where mental health challenges continue to rise, especially in the wake of isolation brought on by the pandemic, one cricket club in Lincolnshire is proving that sport is about far more than just wins and losses. The Broken XI Cricket Club was formed not to top leaderboards, but to create a safe, inclusive space for people who feel a little “broken” be that physically, mentally, emotionally, or otherwise.

The club which was shortlisted for this Year's Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards, was founded by Barry and Tom, two long-time friends who had both stepped away from American Football due to injuries and lifestyle changes. For Barry, the shift to working from home after Covid and the loss of team camaraderie deeply affected his mental health. Tom, recovering from surgeries, was seeking a sport that wouldn’t compromise his recovery. What started as a shared need for connection and purpose soon blossomed into something much bigger.

In September 2023, The Broken XI was officially born - a cricket club for anyone who has ever felt left out, is out of shape, or just in need of a team that truly understands. There are no trials, no performance pressures, and no judgment. Just a shared commitment to feeling better, one match at a time.

Winning Where It Matters

While victories on the pitch are welcome, they’re not the priority. As Barry puts it:

“The Broken XI is there to help find friends, to play a sport without pressure or expectation and to support each other feel a little less broken each day. If we can achieve that, then the scoreboard be dammed, because we've already won before we even step foot on the field. Tom and I could not be prouder of this team”

From the outset, the club received overwhelming support. So much so that their first match happened in April 2024—a full year ahead of schedule. Now in 2025, the club has grown beyond all expectations, with more players than they can sometimes field, a mix of home and away games, and even a tour to France where cricket was just one part of a weekend filled with food, friendship, and fun.

Transforming Lives Through Team Spirit

While the expansion and international matches are milestones worth celebrating, it’s the personal stories within the club that truly highlight its impact:

• A 21-year-old player, once shy and withdrawn, is now preparing to walk the Sahara Desert in February 2026 to raise money for mental health.

• A 65-year-old team member, having rediscovered his love for cricket, now plays regularly for a second team.

• Members recovering from serious injuries like ACL tears are back on the field - moving freely and safely, surrounded by a team they trust.

And for Barry, the founding member, having a group of people who understand and support his mental health journey has been life-changing.

I started the team because my mental health was in a bad place, and knowing there is a team full of people who I can talk to, understand where I am and what I am feeling is amazing. The changing room with this team is a great place to be, supportive and collectively we trust each other to help support us when we need.

More Than a Match

The social side of The Broken XI is just as important as the sport itself. Players and supporters gather regularly for pub nights, BBQs, local matches, and even international games. They’ve already ticked off a Test Match at Trent Bridge in 2024, a T20 in 2025, and are planning an ODI in 2026 to complete their set of experiences together.

This sense of belonging is exactly what Barry and Tom hoped to create, a club where people could be themselves, find community, and rediscover the joy of movement and friendship. As Barry puts it.

“The Broken XI is not just about playing sport, what we do off the pitch is just as important to the club. Tom and I wanted to create a team that prioritised team support over results, and the social aspect of the club helps us achieve that in multiple ways."

A Model for Mental Health in Sport

The Broken XI is a great example of how community sport can support mental health and personal wellbeing. In a time when connection and empathy are more important than ever, this team proves that sometimes the real victories happen off the field.

If you're feeling disconnected, struggling with your mental health, or just looking for a supportive group to get active with, The Broken XI shows that there's always a place for you -no matter your ability, age, or experience.

Interested in learning more or joining The Broken XI?

Visit their facebook page to connect with the team, follow their journey, or find out when their next match is.