In order to create a perfect setting for cricket there can be few better starting points than to ask W G Grace to design a ground to the dimensions of The Oval. The result of the request to the legendary cricketer by the Porter family, owners of the Shenley estate in the latter part of the 19th centre, can be enjoyed today at the Shenley Cricket Centre. On May 18, 1993 the financial and voluntary support of many individuals and organisations culminated in the Centre's official opening by Sir Colin Cowdrey, CBE. June 22 1997 saw Denis Compton, the legendary Middlesex and England cricketer unveil The Denis Compton Ground. Since its unveiling Shenley Cricket Centre has rapidly become one of the most attractive cricket venues in the country and a major cricketing centre of excellence. A multitude of national and county teams have played on The Denis Compton Ground, these have included the national teams of South Africa, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Cricket Facilities The main ground, with its 17 pitch square and purpose-built, electronically-controlled score box is fully equipped for first class cricket. It is complemented by the adjoining nursery ground with its own 10 pitch square, outdoor nets comprising six grass and four all-weather strips, and car parking adjacent to the pavilion and main ground. The pavilion picturesquely situated between the two grounds, consists of four players' changing rooms, an umpires' changing room, a long room and bar, a first floor dining room, and all necessary ancillary facilities. This magnificent multipurpose building provides all of the practical, social and aesthetic demands of a modern cricket centre.