MERKUR Casino UK has pledged a total of £2800 to sports club situated in the heart of Hull, following an additional donation as part of its MERKUR Community programme.
Founded in 1896, Hull Zingari Cricket Club has been a cornerstone of the city’s sporting community for well over a century, originally formed by workers in Hull’s historic dockside district.
The club has played at its current ground, Chanterlands Avenue, since 1910 and has remained proudly amateur, while welcoming players of all levels and backgrounds. With a strong focus on grassroots development, it has run junior cricket programmes since 1977 and continues to support young players from as early as just six years old.
The additional £938 donation provided by MERKUR will allow the club to purchase 24 cricket balls, which are vital in allowing the club to continue providing matches throughout the 2026 season.
Importantly, the funds will allow the club to maintain their involvement with local projects. Last year, they ran various inclusion projects aimed at asylum seekers and refugees following a period of heightened tensions within the area.
Combined with a previous donation of £1936, the extra funding from MERKUR will help the club keep their membership costs as they are. This will ensure that those members, who make a significant commitment to the community, can continue to partake in the matches without worrying about rising costs as well as running the club.
A standout annual event is the club’s “Asia Cup”, an event that works to bring together communities, creating a safe and fun space for all to enjoy the sport and share their experiences.
Laurence Wilkinson, Treasurer, said: “To run our cricket club we are required to use a new cricket ball for each match for the first, second, and third teams. Each season has 22 matches, so as you can imagine it is the main expense of the club to keep the teams functioning. With MERKUR’s support, it helps significantly towards us being able to run our club. It means we don’t have to pass on the costs to the members and ensures that everyone is able to participate, opening the club to all.”
The donation was made through MERKUR’s community programme, highlighting its dedication to promoting social responsibility and strengthening local connections. By partnering with nearby organisations, the initiative seeks out opportunities to make meaningful contributions and enhance the wellbeing of community members.
In 2026, the programme, funded by MERKUR and voluntary donations from its customers from venues across the UK, has donated £30, 572.53 to 30 groups and organisations.
Mark Schertle, COO at MERKUR, said: “At MERKUR, we are committed to giving back to the communities we serve, particularly by supporting those who create a positive difference.”
“Hull Zingari is a perfect example of creating a meaningful impact on local communities and working to bring people together from all backgrounds through their collective love of the sport is a great thing to see. We are delighted that our additional donation can ensure that the club continues to do so.”
