Devonport is located a ferry ride across the Waitemata Harbour from Auckland city. It was originally established as a naval base during the early days of Auckland and, as a result, a township grew up around it to service its needs. When the fleet was in, rival crews would often come ashore to play games. The local community would watch these contests with curiosity and eventually they challenged the crews to a game.

From such beginnings, Devonport grew to become "The cradle of New Zealand Sport".

The first cricket club in New Zealand was established in Devonport. So too were the first soccer club, rugby league club and rowing club to be established in New Zealand in their respective sports. The Jockey Club was the second in Auckland. The yacht club and the bowling club are the third oldest in Auckland, as was the rugby club (the oldest in Auckland).

Devonport today boasts more recreational and sports fields than any other urban area in the country.

The history of cricket in Devonport is unfortunately sketchy, as many records have been lost over the years.

However, the North Shore Cricket Club was established in 1864, primarily by military and civil officers who bought the love of game with them from England. The first club captain was Captain G. Wynyard of the 68th Regiment. The first recorded game was in 1867 against a city club called Blackstones, which was made up of lawyers and law clerks. A return game was played at Auckland Domain the following year with the North Shore players travelling across the harbour in rowboats. Unfortunately, it rained and a soggy North Shore team had to row home again, the game abandoned.

Devonport Domain was originally a mangrove swamp nestled between three extinct volcanos. It was reclaimed in 1984 and a cricket ground was created. The two pitches laid are still in use. Devonport Domain was considered one of the finest and most beautiful cricket grounds in the country. Players would often travel long distances for the opportunity to play there.

The North Shore Cricket Club has a proud history. It has produced 11 New Zealand representatives. Ces Dacre (who played county cricket for many years), Verdun Scott, Jack Cowie are notable. In recent years Martin Snedden, now CEO of New Zealand cricket Inc. and Danny Morrison played for the club.

The club has also produced seven New Zealand women representatives.

Today the Devonport Domain has four wicket blocks and the North Shore Cricket Club is one of only eight Principal clubs in Auckland.