A MEMORIAL cricket match and a gathering were held at May’s Bounty on Sunday to celebrate the life and spirit of Lee Nurse, the Basingstoke cricketer who passed away last year due to Covid.

The event saw participation from international cricketers like West Indian legend Sir Gordon Greenidge and former England and Hampshire players Shaun Udal, Phil Defreitas, Charl Willoughby, Julian Wood, Jon Hardy, and David Nash.

At least 500 people attended the event to remember Lee, who started playing at Basingstoke ground when he was eight years old. The 43-year-old passed away in April 2020.

Speaking to the Gazette, Greenidge said Lee was a passionate young man who loved cricket very much.

“I know how much he loved playing and watching cricket.”

Greenidge, who became friends with the family when he was playing for Hampshire between 1970 and 1987, added that Lee was dedicated to whatever he did.

“He was such a friendly guy. I had to come to this event. I got the invitation and I had to come in to support the family.”

Lee’s father Leon said the event was to celebrate the life and spirit of his son, who loved Basingstoke and cricket.

“Because of Covid we had to go straight back home after his funeral last year. Having a day like this feels nice and happy.”

Two Twenty20 matches were scheduled to be held, but the first game was abandoned because of continuous morning showers, while the second game was also regularly interrupted.