History | Broadhalfpenny Down

Hambledon, Cricket’s First Big Stage

Before Lord’s, before Test matches, before the Ashes, there was a chalk ridge in rural Hampshire. Hambledon’s Broadhalfpenny Down became cricket’s first big stage, and where the modern game began to take shape.

Dave Henderson

Apr 22

A look back, 2005

Broadhalfpenny Brigands’ 2005 season began gloomily. Heavy rain fell against IBM South Hants, the Brigands left staring at 111 all out and darkening skies. Better times followed. In May’s thriller against Nonnunquam, there was a last-over finish: Mike Jarrett became the eighth wicket with five still needed from four balls, and Harry Bates arrived cool, calm, and collected. He blocked his first, pinched a vital single from the next and, in the scramble that followed, ensured t

Dave Henderson

Mar 24

As much about money as runs

On match days in the 18th century, cricket at Hambledon was as much about money as runs. For a typical fixture, about 20,000 people would descend on Broadhalfpenny Down, two miles outside the village, arriving with horses from as far away as Reading, Tonbridge Wells and London. The crowd needed feeding and watering, and an entire pop-up economy obliged: tents and banners selling food and drink, punch and pies, and stalls offering bats alongside bookmakers’ ledgers. Tradesmen

Dave Henderson

Mar 24

A look back, the New Pavilion

The new pavilion was opened on 22 June 1999, after years of planning, fundraising, and construction. The old "hutt" had been outgrown, and facilities no longer met Hampshire League standards, so a new pavilion was commissioned. Initial plans met with objections from some, including former journalist Ashley Mote. Almost two years later, friends, donors, and supporters gathered on a Tuesday midsummer evening for champagne and speeches.

Brigands CC

Feb 22