Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg swapped his tactical board for a cricket bat on Saturday, joining a charity match that raised funds for local youth sports. The former Swedish midfielder took the field at the Riverside Cricket Ground, showing a lighter side of the club’s leadership while the team sits 5th in the Championship with 80 points.

Why did Hellberg join the cricket charity?

The event, organized by the Tees Valley Community Trust, aimed to support the new sports complex in Middlesbrough. Hellberg, who arrived at the club in July 2024, agreed to bat and bowl for the “Boro Blues” side. He said the experience reminded him of his own school days, and he hoped fans would see a different side of the manager beyond the press conferences.

How does this fit with Middlesbrough’s current season?

The club’s campaign has been uneven – 22 wins, 14 draws and 10 losses from 46 games, with a recent run of LLLLD (most recent first). They sit 15 points behind leaders Coventry in the title race and have scored 72 goals while conceding 47. The charity match offered a brief respite after a 1-0 defeat to Hull City on 23 May 2026.

What was the on‑field action?

Hellberg opened the batting at number 7 and faced 12 balls, scoring a quick 8 before being caught at slip. He bowled two overs, conceding just 10 runs and picking up a wicket – the only dismissal of the evening. The match ended in a low‑scoring tie, but the crowd’s applause was louder for the manager’s effort than the final score.

What’s next for Hellberg and the club?

With the next league fixture against Espanyol at home on 1 August 2026, Hellberg returns to focusing on the promotion push. The charity appearance may have boosted morale, but the squad still needs to turn the recent form around. Fans will be watching to see if the manager’s enthusiasm on the cricket field translates into a spark on the football pitch.