Search the Cradle of Cricket

For over 25 years, the Broad Halfpenny Down Association (BHDA) and the Preservation Trust (BDPT) have been charged with the promotion and maintenance of the historically important ground at Broadhalfpenny Down, the home of the great 18th-century Hambledon team. The Down is widely regarded as the ‘cradle of cricket.’ This arrangement would not have been possible without the excellent support of the Broadhalfpenny Brigands CC (the Brigands), Hambledon CC, and Winchester College among others. As things evolved, we have ended up with a situation where three organisations (the BHDA, the BDPT, and the Brigands) were running one historic cricket ground with a shared aim but ultimately the same group of people. In seeking to deliver a more effective and efficient operation, in Autumn 2023, we announced our intention to change the stewardship of one of cricket’s most historic venues by modifying the constitution of the Brigands CC, transferring assets, responsibilities, and then winding up the BHDA and BDPT. This move marks the beginning of a new era for Broadhalfpenny Down, streamlining governance and improving the club’s ability to secure funding and develop the site for future generations. Now operating as a registered Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC), the Brigands are well-positioned to access grants, receive Gift Aid on donations, and continue their role as custodians of this iconic ground. The club is financially sound, has a committed and active membership, and is supported by a strengthened management committee. The winding up of the Trusts and the Association Trust simplifies ongoing operations without compromising the spirit and ambition that have long underpinned efforts to protect and promote Broadhalfpenny Down. The Brigands have incorporated the charitable objects in their new CASC constitution and remain dedicated to preserving the ground’s unique identity, while enhancing the ability to fundraise and grow. Maintaining strong ties with Hambledon Cricket Club remains a key priority, and both clubs are exploring new opportunities for collaboration and joint funding initiatives aimed at improving the facilities at the ground. This transition also sends a clear message to Winchester College, the freeholder of the ground: that the Brigands, as host club, are committed to fulfilling the broader community and heritage objectives previously championed by the charity, now under a more efficient and sustainable structure. Mike Beardall, Chairman of the BDPT said ‘I am delighted that we can not only continue but improve the future of the custodianship of Broad halfpenny down for generations to come with a modern streamlined and more efficient organisation.’ Gerry Northwood, Chairman of the Brigands said ‘The Brigands continue to go from strength to strength as we champion both the legacy and the future of this special ground for all.’

A guest story by a Friend of the Brigands, Ray Mead I thoroughly enjoyed Bill Evershed’s blog on these pages back in May (The Great Grey Granite Slabs Scam), explaining his entry on the splendid new plaque unveiled this year on the pavilion wall. Unlike Bill, I can’t quite claim to have been “imbibing here since 1954,” nor do I own an umpire’s tie earned via a promise of free beer in Hong Kong. But I too have a small inscription on the plaque, and thought I’d share the story behind it - one that ties a thread of my own family’s history to the rich tapestry of Broadhalfpenny Down. My connection to the ground is recent, forged in the last few years since my son, Henry, began playing for Hambledon. Now part of the Under 11s, he spends his weekends out on that hallowed turf while I, pint in hand from the Bat & Ball, cheer from a fold-up chair. It’s become one of life’s great pleasures—watching cricket’s core memories take shape in such a stirring and historic setting. As a fan, I’ve long known about Broadhalfpenny Down’s importance to the game, and was thrilled to attend the 250th Anniversary Match in 2022 with Henry, celebrating the birth of First Class Cricket. That legacy, along with innovations like the third stump and overarm bowling, is what I aimed to honour with my plaque line: “From Hants to the World.” I’m a proud Hampshireman, raised and schooled in the county’s north, later living in Southampton and Winchester, and now happily rooted in the Meon Valley. To me, Broadhalfpenny Down is more than a cricket ground; it’s a living monument to the sport’s origins and the generations who’ve shaped it. While reading more about the ground’s history, I stumbled upon a distant family link to C.P. “Phil” Mead, the legendary Hampshire batsman who played in the 1908 commemorative match, when the granite monument was first unveiled at the south-east corner of the ground. His record, more than 49,000 First Class runs for a single county, remains unmatched. Phil Mead is a distant cousin of both Henry and me. So when the chance came to support the preservation fund and contribute a line to the plaque, it felt right—a small gesture of thanks to those safeguarding this special place, and a nod to our family’s connection past and present. I look forward to raising a glass with you all at the annual end-of-season dinner in October—to the past, the present, and the future of this remarkable ground. See you at the Bat & Ball.

Cricket is more than just a game - it's where friends and communities come together. Toyota understand that clubs rely on volunteers and fundraisers to keep the scoreboards ticking over. That's why Toyota have launched a raffle with over £200,000 worth of prizes, including three brand new Toyota cars, money-can’t-buy experiences and vouchers. The best bit, is that Broadhalfpenny Down and Broadhalfpenny Brigands CC will receive 100% of all raffle tickets purchased through our own website if purchased before the end of September 2025. Winners will be notified and announced on 7th October 2025. The Good for Cricket draw closes on 30 September

Portuguese legend Jose Mourinho once said "No pressure. The bigger the ship, the stronger the storm. And I have always been in big ships. FC Porto was a big ship in Portugal, Chelsea was a big ship in England, and Inter was a great ship in Italy." Well, Paul Whittle is in charge of the biggest ship of all as Broadhalfpenny Brigands sail off to tour Porto on the 30-31 August 2025, playing two fixtures at Oporto Cricket & Lawn Tennis Club. The two all-day matches will be played in 25-degree sunshine, with sumptuous port-filled lunches, and at a club that features an outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts. https://www.oportocricketclub.com/ Would players, umpires, scorers, and supporters register their expression of interest to join the tour, or direct any questions to Paul Whittle, Tour Manager, whittlepw@gmail.com .

By Bill Evershed At first, I thought I had become a victim of the Great Grey Granite Slabs Scam. But it all turned out fine when the Broadhalfpenny Down Preservation Trust metamorphosed the granite slabs into a wondrous plaque embellishing the front of the pavilion. How did it all start? Well, some Brigands and Hambledonians and Winchesterians may remember, a few years ago, being invited to invest in a granite slab to be placed near the famous ‘Hambledon’ monument on Broadhalfpenny Down to commemorate someone or something with wording of their choice. Being already so ancient and unlikely to merit anything otherwise more worthwhile on my tombstone, I was tempted to provide two slabs - One would read ‘ Free Beer For Umpires ’ and the other ‘ Imbibing Here Since 1954 ’ - and sent off my cheque. But why such wording? I served in the Royal Navy in Hong Kong in the early 1970s, when there was still a lovely green oasis Cricket Ground in the middle of the Business District. Courses for Umpires were offered during the winter months that would allow those who successfully passed the final 2-hour written examination to become Overseas Members of the MCC at a very modest annual subscription, and a promise that Cricket Umpires were always rewarded after a Match with a free beer. And so I joined the Evening Classes, quaffing a modest glass of San Mig as I did so; and, rather to my surprise, passed the final examination and awarded an Umpire’s Tie and an Overseas MCC tie, and invited to umpire matches in the Hong Kong league, receiving a glass of beer at the end of each Match. Upon my return to the UK, I found that Overseas MCC membership counted for nothing and that if I wished to become a Member of the MCC, I could pay an exorbitant sum every year just to remain on the MCC Waiting List. I had better uses for my money. And much to my disappointment, I discovered that ‘Free Beer for Umpires’ did not apply in the UK, so my later years umpiring on Broadhalfpenny Down had always to be self-thirst-quenched. What then about ‘Imbibing Here Since 1954’? I reached age 18 in 1954, and the ‘Bat & Ball’ being then, as it is now, within walking distance of my home (but at age 88 it takes longer and is easier by car) it seemed a good choice to try alcohol, legally. I joined the Royal Naval College at Dartmouth that same year and slaked my thirst at the ‘Floating Bridge’. At that time, Broadhalfpenny Down cricketers were, or seemed to me to be, all left-shoulder aiguilletted Flag Lieutenants with double-barrelled surnames and posh voices. But the cricket was good to watch. The landlord, Major Wilson, an Argyll & Sutherland Highlander and deaf from wartime gunfire, was a dear and kindly man, and his wife, Flora, a dear and kindly lady. The pub was then much smaller than it is today. There was no restaurant. The only food was Smith’s Crisps, and then later the more adventurous ‘Chicken & Chips in a Basket’. No children were allowed in the pub and the bar stood dividing what is now the main bar area, with the Hambledon/Clanfield parish boundary painted strip on the floor, which allowed earlier licensed drinking on one side and later licensed drinking on the other. This was the Public Bar, where yokels and cricketers entered through the front door and sank their ales standing up. And where beer was 3d cheaper than in the Lounge Bar. The Lounge Bar, with ancient dark brown leather sofas and chairs, and where ladies and gentlemen sipped their sherries sitting down, was situated in the area where we now enter the pub. And its bar ran at right angles to the bar for the Public Bar. With their beer barrels and ‘shorts’ on shelves behind them, the Major & Flora would stand where we now stand at the new bar and therefore keep an eye on and serve both bars simultaneously. And they could appreciate an occasional gentle subdued murmuring from the Lounge Bar, where officers from HMS Mercury might take their Wrens; contrasting with noisier vernacular Hampshire accents in the Public Bar from local farmers and their lads – interspersed with the occasional wah-wah from the posh cricketers. Such was my introduction to Broadhalfpenny Down cricket and to pub drinking and I’ve never outgrown it. And that is how and why I thought I had become a victim of the Great Grey Granite Slabs Scam, but now, to my joy, I see my ‘tombstone’ wishes and many others recorded on that wondrous plaque embellishing the front of the pavilion. For which, my sincere thanks, Bill Evershed. Bill Evershed, pictured in the background, at a ceremony to celebrate the Cockleshell Heroes

Thank you to all the lovely volunteers who lent a hand to take down the sight screens, take the canvass of the covers, and ready the ground for the Winter.

The Brigands Annual Dinner is taking place on 4th October 2025 at The Bat & Ball. There will be speeches, awards, prizes, a raffle, and one last chance to enjoy the Company of the Brigands before the Winter. We will thank some of our new donors, and there may be a surprise in store as well. The Bat & Ball is laying on a high feast, from hack hock terrines and steak pies to roast chicken, fish and chips, and pan-roasted salmon. The Dinner is open to all Brigands, Supporters, and Friends; the more-the-merrier. To book, or for more information, contact Richie Hay at brigandscchonsec@gmail.com .

Hayling Island was once home to Britain’s only operating railway bridge across tidal waters, the Hayling Billy Line, now a much-loved trail for walkers and cyclists. The affable Hayling Island CC marked their maiden appearance at the cradle of cricket with a touch of history before a ball was bowled, as a 1772 George III Halfpenny was spun for the toss. Brigands won it and elected to bat. The Brigands innings began curiously. Harry Collier, the overseas player making the crossing from the Isle of Wight on the hovercraft, succumbed early when he misjudged a teasing inswinger and offered up a leading edge for a simple caught-and-bowled dismissal. Moments later, the big-hitting tour star Dave Turner perished to a moment of carelessness, failing to ground his bat as he dashed for a single. It fell to the familiar pair of Dave Henderson and Rupert Preece to restore order. Henderson’s fluent 65 from 49 balls and Preece’s measured 52 from 64 were full of cover drives and cuts, their partnership once again the ballast of the Brigands’ season. Both batters close their seasons averaging above 50. Play was briefly interrupted at 3pm when the nationwide emergency-alert test sent mobile phones buzzing around the ground, though it served only as a brief punctuation. Normal service was soon resumed with Paul Whittle scoring ones and twos,  Gerry Northwood out LBW, and Guy Ladenburg running out his batting partner. If that error weighed on him, Ladenburg did not show it. In the 34th over he launched a ferocious assault, plundering 27 runs from one over; two sixes were shelled in the crowd and another six made an unwelcome dent in a parked Mercedes. His 35 from just nine deliveries was the fastest thirty in Brigands history. Tea brought its own debates ; cream or jam first on the scones,  but agreement at least that the fare of brownies, sponge, sausage rolls and sandwiches was delicious.  Among the supporters were the Morris, Turner, and Preece families, and a rare but welcome visit from club stalwart Bill Evershed. Their presence lent the day a familial warmth, with cheers and encouragement as hearty as the tea.  Ladenburg, reinvigorated, claimed the scalps of Watson, Harris-Dean, and Devaiah in a superb opening spell with off cutters and varying his pace. Rob Manson struck with an LBW and then drew a diving catch from Henderson at long off. At 38 for 5, the tide seemed to be going out on Hayling’s hopes. Spin applied the finishing touches. Rafi Abdeen’s leg-breaks accounted for two wickets, while Rory Morris claimed three with guile and flight. Hayling were bowled out for 81, but departed in high spirits, talking of a win next season.  And that was that. The clouds dispersed and the sun came out  one last time as the players retired to the Bat & Ball to reflect on a great season of friendly, village cricket, where it all began. Just 219 days to go until the next match. Brigands 201-7 off 24 overs declared, beat Hayling Island 81 all out by 120 runs Brigands v Hayling Island, 2025 The end of the season at Broadhalfpenny Down

With over 400 articles and match reports, thousands of photographs, lots of statistics, and a growing video collection, a new Search feature has been added to the Menu of the website.

“The ball is bowled, the glass is poured, Let bat and bottle both be scored; For port, like cricket, keeps its cheer, Through every match and every year.” Anonymous Nineteenth Century Verse Thirteen fine cricketers and nine enthusiastic supporters made their way from the South Downs of England to the city of Oporto for two Test Matches, hosted by the warm and hospitable Oporto Lawn Tennis and Cricket Club. The First Test  Short on pace bowling options but with form in the nets, Dave Turner took the new ball alongside Danny Dawson. The decision bore fruit early: Oporto’s opener Gunawardena drove crisply to extra cover where Dave Henderson pouched the catch, before Dawson shattered Anantharaman’s middle stump. At 15 for two the Brigands were buoyant. Then Chambers and Gill swung the game back. Chambers blazed a 50 from 35 balls, Gill followed with 50 from 41, and for the next hour the home side rattled along merrily. Brigands’ attack looked threadbare. There were individual bright spots: Rupert Preece was sublime behind the stumps, and Steve Blackburn bowled with commendable control. Lunch included a gorgeous chickpea curry, washed down with Douro Valley wine and accompanied by speeches and port toasts. After lunch, Oporto were firmly in command.  Dougie Henderson contrived to concede 11 runs from his first ball, Neil Wood sprayed full tosses that disrupted those lunching on the verandah, and Dawson was launched into the tennis courts three times by Bashir.  They declared at 257, leaving Brigands to mount a stuttering response. At 40 for four in the 18th over, the innings was listing badly. Dave Turner and Dave Henderson rallied with a 33-run stand, only for Turner to miss a full toss and linguist Tom Ellis shouldered arms to a straight one. At 95 for seven, salvation came in the form of Dougie Henderson and Neil Wood, who counter-attacked with flair. Their 87 in just 14 overs included four clean Henderson sixes and nimble strike-rotation from Wood. Still, the draw had to be secured. Beardall and Dawson showed granite determination, blocking 59 balls between them to close out the match, before beers and port tonics were taken on the terrace with pride intact. The Second Test  The second encounter bore similarities to the first: Oporto’s top order flourished, Brigands dropped chances, and Jim Morris, Steve Blackburn and Dave Turner wished for twelfth-man duties as hangovers lingered. Yet there was discipline. Dawson’s first five overs cost just 23 runs, Beardall’s only 12. Wood picked up his maiden wicket of the tour, while Gerry Northwood added a sharp run-out. Beardall’s final analysis of 3 for 99 from 17 overs included crowd-pleasing catches from Paul Whittle, Morris and Northwood. Lunch again played its part, and this time there was a fragrant fish curry accompanied by a crisp white wine. Oporto declared later than expected, leaving Brigands a stern target of 275 in around 50 overs. At 34 for two after 14 overs, the chase seemed remote. But Turner cut loose. In partnership with Preece the pair added 90 in 19 overs, striking three sixes, including one into a neighbouring German school (who stubbornly declined to return the ball). Dougie Henderson chipped in with a lively 27, Morris contributed 29, including a six over mid-wicket, and Wood struck a run-a-ball 27. Brigands’ momentum carried them close, but they finished on 247 for 8, just 27 short of victory. Still, they left unbeaten across the weekend. Port, the Bishop of Norwich, and the Fines No Oporto tour is complete without port, and the inquiry “Do you know the Bishop of Norwich?” was heard on several occasions to keep the port flowing. There was late-night table tennis, billiards, and Super Bok too. After play on the Sunday came the fines committee, which sat in judgment on misfields, dropped catches, and other misdemeanours. Mike Beardall was named best bowler, Dougie Henderson best batter, and the best player on tour tie was given to Rupert Preece. Captain's Reflections Brigands were looked after superbly; from the tour of Taylor's port house through to the hospitality of the Oporto Lawn and Tennis club (a hat tip to Prem, Anthony, Neil, Mark, and Andrew amongst others). Huge gratitude for a delightful group of players willing to rotate in the field and stand as umpires, for three scorers who kept meticulous records, and for a band of supporters whose energy, rousing cheers, and encouragement never wavered. Stoically, the Tour Manager umpired at both ends for 96 overs during the First Test. Brigands enjoyed Oporto’s late-summer warmth but they had been tested by an alien environment: a bouncy plastic pitch, a slow outfield that rewarded aerial hitting, and a home side who knew their conditions. They left Portugal unbeaten, well fed, well watered, and well aware that cricket, like port, is best when savoured slowly, shared widely, and remembered fondly. Dougie Henderson on the attack with the Clubhouse in the background Brigands in Oporto, 2025 Oporto Lawn Tennis & Cricket Club The tour bat, presented to the Oporto Lawn Tennis & Cricket Club in appreciation of their hospitality

This Summer, we have welcomed our first guests using the VIP Viewing Gallery at Broadhalfpenny Down. It's a lovely vantage point for watching the cricket, catching up with friends, and soaking up the views of the rolling South Downs towards the Hambledon valley and Hambledon vineyard. As one of our guests said recently, "If you’re a cricket fan and get the chance to watch from the VIP section, don’t think twice, it’s an experience you won’t forget." Testimonials What an incredible experience; a perfect vantage point to watch the action - close to the game while enjoying the comfort and exclusivity of the balcony at the pavilion made the day memorable. Everything felt top-class, a fantastic atmosphere, excellent service, and, of course, unbeatable views. Abigail H What an amazing afternoon.  I went to cricket with my father as a child and had forgotten how relaxing it is. The beautiful surroundings and the quintessential English ambience of cricket and pavilion will be an afternoon I will never forget.  Liz J Hire You can hire the VIP Viewing Gallery to celebrate a special occasion or treat your valued clients to an afternoon of exclusive luxury by bringing your own food and drinks and making your special event an individual experience from just £25 per person. Contact Tracy Murley on 07511626932 or tracymurley1962@gmail.com for more information and to reserve.

At 2.44pm on the final day of the unforgettable Ashes summer of 2005, Kevin Pietersen and Ashley Giles came together with the urn on the line. Against express pace, sharp spin and suffocating fields, they fought through an hour that Pietersen would later describe as the most intense, and the most fun, of his career. At Broadhalfpenny Down this weekend, Dave Henderson and Mike Beardall found themselves in a similar position. With 8 wickets down and 10 overs still to survive against the relentless attack of Butterflies CC, they were tasked with preserving Brigands pride. By then, the conditions were loaded in the visitors’ favour. The late-summer wicket was dry and cracked, the ball leaping unpredictably from a length as the sun began to sink. The umpires were turning down enthusiastic appeals that rained in for every half-chance. Earlier, the Butterflies had paced their innings with precision; 30 for 2 after ten overs, 100 for 3 at the 20-over mark, before accelerating towards a commanding declaration. Beardall had claimed the first three wickets with flight and spin, but his efforts merely brought Robbie Ceiriog-Hughes to the crease. The elegant left-hander peppered the skies with chances, though Brigands’ creaking fielders; hampered by age, injury, and the unfamiliar sight of Adam Jay crouching behind the stumps. Richie Hay bowled an economical spell and Lee Gray picked up 3 wickets with a mix of seam and spin, but from 198 for 7 the Butterflies surged to 229 for 7 declared in the blink of an eye, a total that even the most seasoned chasing side would have found daunting on that pitch. Brigands’ response began in disarray. A calamitous mix-up left Jim Morris run out without scoring, while Mark Flewitt lost his off stump, Jay feathered an edge, and Paul Whittle was caught (off the leading edge) in the slips. It seemed only a matter of time before the Butterflies wrapped things up. But Henderson dug deep. With a straight bat and calm presence, he stayed out in the middle for 32 overs, scoring 74 not out, including 16 boundaries of which all but 2 were through the off-side. Wickets continued to tumble around him, but a gritty stand of 58 with Steve Blackburn took the score from 62-7 to 120-8, bringing Beardall to the crease, and a hard-fought draw. A combined "best of XI" from the day might have included nine Butterflies and two Brigands, but that is the romance of timed cricket. Should the declaration have come earlier? Would more tempting bowlers in the middle-overs have been more profitable? Risk and reward at play at the cradle of cricket. Butterflies 229-8 drew with Brigands 142-8 Photo credits Paul Whittle, Adam Jay & Kris Newton

On a sun-drenched Broadhalfpenny Down, Hambledon Cricket Club made a journey of two and a half miles, and two and a half centuries back in time. The Brigands, winning the toss, invited Hambledon to toil in the heat. Dave Henderson and Rupert Preece laid a steady platform with a fifty stand before Tom Cameron, a lanky Brisbane-born all-rounder, added an elegant 13. At 107 for 6, the innings threatened to wilt, only for Jake Peach and Guy Ladenburg to wrest momentum with a partnership of 110 from just 11 overs in 38 minutes. Their efforts carried the Brigands to a spirited declaration at 229 for eight from 47.5 overs (at 4.20pm), Hambledon’s bowlers rattling through their overs with commendable pace. A lot was going on behind the scenes. Neil Wood was deployed to fix the clock, Mike Beardhall was stocking up the pavilion cricket library, and the Northwoods served up delicious sandwiches, a splendid Apple and Cinnamon cake, and the freezer was raided for Cornettos. Stacked with youthful talent from their first and second teams, Hambledon began the chase briskly, scoring at a run a ball. Both openers were out bowled, yet at 68 for 2 after 13 overs, the contest was evenly poised. Ladenburg removed Mark Butcher, but then the young Lewis brothers rebuilt patiently, finding gaps and rotating strike against Beardall’s flighted spin downhill and Rafi Abdeen’s leg-breaks uphill. At drinks, Hambledon required under 100 with seven wickets intact – clear favourites. Abdeen’s sharp caught-and-bowled sparked life for the Brigands, but Cameron’s short-pitched experiment was punished for 20 in 2 overs, restoring Hambledon’s control. The game’s complexion shifted once more when Wood’s second spell brought two breakthroughs (one involved a running-diving catch from Rupert Preece) and Peach snaring Elliot Lewis with a rare “stumped Turner, bowled Peach”; scorer Peter Danks savoured the entry. With just 36 needed from 7 overs and 3 wickets in hand, Hambledon curiously shut shop, settling for the draw and finishing on 206 for 7 from 45 overs. When the teams walked off, it was a satisfied Brigands side who had big smiles, warm hearts, and were enjoying their refreshing beer at the Bat & Ball. Brigands 229-8 declared drew with Hambledon 206-7, in an afternoon game with a record 92.5 overs bowled

On this day in 1756, Rover the dog was lost during a cricket match at Broadhalfpenny Down, and a reward was offered for his recovery—the advertisement placed in the Reading Mercury newspaper by the Reverend Richard Keats of Chalton. Today, walkers often bring their best friends to watch a cricket match, enjoy a drink, and take in the views of the Hambledon valley.

Like fine wine and vintage port, Brigands have selected a well-aged beautiful squad for the forthcoming tour to Porto. Mike Beardall; A spin bowling stalwart, with some nice batting partnerships, who is set to make a strong contribution on tour. With the Brigands since 1992, a previous Royal Naval Cricket Club chairman and Life Member of the MCC, this is a fitting end to a fun season of successes and failures - treating those two impostors just the same, before heading even further afield as one of the 'Brigands representatives' at the forthcoming Ashes Down Under. He's keeping his eye on both line and length just in case he's asked to step up whilst there. Ever hopeful and a top teamie, his motto is "it's the cricket that always wins". Steve Blackburn; The Swiss-Army knife of the Brigands, who can turn his hand to whatever is required for the cause. An attacking batter, a dangerous slow bowler, a lovely smile, good energy, a deep-sea diver, a fair Umpire, and an assistant groundsman too. Danny Dawson; Mainly a bowler who also enjoys batting, Danny gave up the ‘battle’ of league cricket 4 years ago to enjoy more ‘jazz hat’. Mainly play for Stragglers of Asia, South Oxford Amateurs, and Ibiza CC. He bowls straight and appeals convincingly, so he should be an asset.   Tom Ellis; A criminologist and the last remaining academic from Portsmouth University in the Portsmouth Academics. A late promotion to upper tail-end batting this season has been enjoyable, interspersed with bewitching loopy bowling when required. Has played cricket in Ireland and Belgium and as a speaker of seven languages and a fan of travel, wine, port, and cricket, he is looking forward to cricket in a fabulous location and meeting kindred spirits. Mark Flewitt; A former all-rounder until his knees expressed negative opinions about bowling. Now an elegant batter, Mark is multi-lingual, green-fingered, and recently drove aid to Ukraine on a charity mission. Mark has been a Brigand for over 15 years but can claim no Royal Navy connections, other than a retired Commodore as a neighbour, and an ex-Royal Marine as a Godfather. Mark’s cricketing geography includes England, Wales, Germany, Holland, France and Argentina, and he is excited at adding Portugal to the list. Dave Henderson; A cricket badger, Portugal marks the thirteenth country he will have played in. Dave's last weekend tour was in Belgium, where he Captained two successive tied matches in a weekend, and earlier this season he played (and got concussed) in the Rhino Cup in Kenya. Having retired from League cricket seven years ago, he fell into the Brigands and enjoys aiming for the Bat & Ball pub whenever he is at the crease. Dougie Henderson; The youngest member, and fastest runner, of the touring Brigands, he is a hockey-playing mercurial batter who will need to mind the windows of the beautiful Oporto clubhouse if he gets going. If. Known for his witty banter from the boundary, he his looking forward to his first Port tasting, but under strict instruction to keep an eye on Dad. Jim Morris; Once a Royal Marine, Jim returned to cricket at the Brigands in recent years in the pursuit of camaraderie and to bowl leg spin again. The former has been considerably more successful than the latter. He is looking forward to both the cultural aspects of the tour and how the Porto weather will affect the flight and the turn of a cricket ball if it lands! Gerry Northwood; There is a vague and enduring memory of watching a bat be cut down for a three-year-old boy; he considers himself "extraordinarily lucky to become a left-handed batter and to be introduced to the finest ball game ever invented". Across the next 60 years, he has had the privilege to play, with mixed results, cricket on four continents, and had the joy of playing with fellow cricket travellers on many a beautiful ground in England, including at the “cradle of the game” on Broadhalfpenny Down. Rupert Preece; A well-coached batter whose technique has for years masked a distinct lack of natural talent and has now passed the point where experience overcomes capability. Speed between the wickets is frequently overestimated by teammates. Currently participating in pre-tour heat and rehydration training while reading Lara’s biography, in his minds eye, there is a big innings still to be played. Hope springs eternal! Dave Turner; All round impact, like Ian Botham or Ben Stokes, is what Dave brings to the Brigands. He is handy with both edges of the bat, deceptive with the ball, static behind the stumps, and unabating with his banter. It will be interesting to see if he can perform without his family fan club that attends most Brigands matches. A huge asset to the touring party. Paul Whittle ; A left-hand batter who once scored over 1,000 runs in a Surrey League season. For the last two decades has been leading the averages at Fareham, Paul also plays for Brigands, Portsmouth Academics, Forty (XL) Club, Further Friars, and Hampshire Hogs. A regular cricket traveller, he has played in Malta, Dubai, and Rwanda. Known for his signature “paddle” shots square and behind the wicket, Paul is a qualified umpire, so it's advisable not to question the judgements of the councillor magistrate! Neil Wood;  Woody was introduced to the Brigands in 2015 and the club has been on the up ever since. Nellie has more nicknames than he has runs and can be found most Sundays with a double-figure batting number. A founder member of the Brigands All Rounders Club, Woodster can often be found in All Rounders Corner reminiscing with like-minded All Rounders. Like Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad, the Wood End at Broadhalfpenny Down is named after a crowd favourite. Caroline Beardall (Scorer); Always trust the numbers is her motto. Diligently following the game on Broadhalfpenny Down or at Lord’s all will be fine unless you forget to provide her with the bowlers name, offer useful advice (such as why is the man in the white coat waving at you), or offer her a glass of champagne (or worse don't offer her a glass of champagne). Caroline is looking forward to helping England recover the Ashes Down Under. Graham Peach (Man About Tour); The only bloke among a bevvy of glamorous female supporters, Graham counts his blessings. Twenty plus years a Brigand, his best shots are now played in his head from beyond the boundary rope! He was a Brigands co-captain, a middle-order batter with more ducks than tons, bowled tripe off-spin which yielded 260 wickets. His greatest claim is siring 3 talented Brigand sons! He is grateful to be alive and proud to represent the Peach clan on tour. Brigands, flying the flag for the UK Tour Details Friday lunchtime: Optional fielding practice, or orientation in Porto Friday afternoon: Port tasting at a famous Port House Friday evening: Team tactics and wholesome meal in Porto. Curfew and early to bed for all players under the age of 30. Saturday: First Test, 11am start, Astroturf wicket so no-spikes Saturday evening: Presentation dinner at Oporto Lawn Tennis and Cricket Club, with inquest as to what went wrong Sunday: Second Test, 11am start, Astroturf wicket so no-spikes Sunday evening: An informal supper, with details to be confirmed depending on injuries, morale, and who is still talking to each other. Monday am: Some Brigands depart, some stay on to enjoy Portugal The dinner on Saturday will include short presentations. A shirt and Brigands tie are preferred; jacket is optional. All touring groups are honorary members of the OCLTC for their visit. Please use the Brigands Porto 2025 WWhatsApp group for updates. Paul Whittle (tour): whittlepw@gmail.com +44 7973 688580 Dave Henderson (cricket): davidhendersonuk@hotmail.com +44 7739 594452 Oporto Lawn Tennis and Cricket Club Rua do Campo Alegre 532, 4050-170 Porto, Portugal Phone: +351 22 605 2720 https://www.oportocricketclub.com/ Party Hotel : HF Tuela Porto Rua Arquitecto Marques Da Silva, 200, Massarelos, 4150-483 Porto, Portugal Phone: +351 22 619 4105

Representing Australia in the UK since 1918, the High Commission plays a central role in diplomacy, trade, culture and sport; cricket being an important thread in the Commonwealth tapestry. Its London base, Australia House on the Strand, is the oldest continuously occupied diplomatic mission in Britain and doubled as Gringotts Wizarding Bank in the Harry Potter films. At Broadhalfpenny Down, the High Commission’s side has become a fixture in fostering Anglo-Australian camaraderie on the field as well as off it. On a perfect August afternoon, 25°C, blue skies and the gentlest breeze, captain Mike Beardall won the toss and chose to bowl. Openers Neil Wood and Ed Hands adopted a sporting approach, testing the leg-side wide law more than the batsmen’s defences. But their replacements, Beardall and Guy Ladenburg, struck three times in 10 balls to leave the visitors 60-3 at drinks. The Australians rebuilt sensibly, reaching 150-4 after 30 overs before John Friend unleashed a late assault, lifting them to 235 from 42 overs. Jake Peach, Rafi Abdeen and Rory Morris claimed wickets, while Dave Turner kept wicket bravely against uneven bounce. Fielding was spirited, if occasionally flawed – Jim Morris' first-over drop set the tone. After a "Hands-made" tea, Gerry Northwood and Peach put on 98 for the second wicket, setting up a chase of 236. But the middle order faltered against the visitors’ “low and slow” tactics. Abdeen’s late cameo – 16 in an over – briefly threatened before his dismissal in the penultimate over. With nine balls left, the Brigands needed survival. Beardall and Wood, long-serving Brigands stalwarts, saw off the danger to secure a hard-earned draw, despite the Aussies’ inventive attempt to squeeze in an extra delivery. It was an idyllic day at the Down, played in fine spirit, and the fixture looks set to remain a highlight of the Brigands’ summer calendar. Aussie House 235-8 declared drew with Brigands 192-9 Match report by Ed Hands, with additional Harry Potter research by Dave Henderson. Photo credits Ed Hands and Dave Turner.

Geoff Boycott once said a batting side should always “add two wickets to that score” to gauge how well they’re really doing. He might have done better to suggest three. The Brigands looked in complete control early on, cruising at 30 without loss after seven overs. Gerry Northwood and Guy Ladenburg were striking the ball cleanly, seemingly untroubled by the damp pitch and overcast skies that were causing both swing through the air and seam movement off the deck. But then came a dramatic over from Mike Murray; everything changed. Northwood was struck on the pad in front of middle stump and given out after a slow, deliberate raise of the finger from umpire Nick Harris. Two balls later, Ladenburg edged one to a stunning catch at first slip. Off the very last delivery of the over, newcomer Rob Manson was bowled - middle stump knocked back. From 30-0, Brigands had slumped to 31-3. The tousle-haired Ed Hands, delayed by A3 road closures (who knew?), had missed his chance to open. He arrived late, went in at number five, faced nine dot balls, and ran two singles before being caught behind. There were whispers that it might have been the bat hitting the ground. Regardless, it was 50-4. Dave Turner and Dave Henderson, sharing the same bat sponsor and a gritty determination, were now at the crease. Turner looked nervous, repeatedly playing back and missing balls that kept low. A fielder, bemused at Turner’s struggles, called out: “Haven’t you ever played here before?” But the pair built momentum. Most of their runs came from grounded strokes - singles and twos - but they kept the scoreboard ticking at around seven an over. With spin operating at both ends and the ball turning prodigiously, several deliveries pitched outside leg and missed off, and vice versa. It was tricky batting. Yet they brought up a century partnership. A celebratory fist bump marked the milestone, but soon after, Turner (62) was run out coming back for a second as Brigands looked to accelerate. Joe Kooner-Evans (38) took an over or two to settle, giving strike to Henderson (94), who produced a flurry of late cuts and two big sixes - first off O’Mera, then off Goode - one of which smashed a tile on the roof of the famous Bat & Ball pub. Brigands declared on 235-8 after just 42 overs. The players then enjoyed a classic cricket tea, complete with birthday cake and a round of singing for Paul Whittle and Northwood. The Sussex Martlets opened with a powerful top order stacked with talented young batters who came out swinging. Alex Good led the way, striking through the line with ease on his way to a run-a-ball half-century. But Broadhalfpenny Down has a way of levelling things. Kooner-Evans took a sharp catch at cover. Henderson, fielding on the long-on boundary, set a trap. Beardall took a rare slip catch. Hands bowled a wholehearted 10-over spell, finishing with 1-33, supported by Ladenburg’s 2-13 and Wood’s 2-28. Once Goode was trapped LBW by a ball that skidded from Manson, the Martlets’ chase stalled. They began to dig in for a draw as the Brigands crowded the bat. Then came a mesmeric three-over spell from ex-Marine Jim Morris, bowling like the mythical martlet - a bird said never to land. The batters couldn’t read him. One spooned a catch to Northwood at square leg; another holed out to Hands, who had positioned himself 20 yards in from the mid-wicket rope. Fittingly, Kooner-Evans claimed the final wicket. And then it was beers and flapjacks in the pub - and an apology to the landlady for the broken roof tile. The Toss, Brigands choose to bat first on a damp pitch Henderson's fingerprints were all over tile-gate in Hambledon Brigands 235-8 declared beat Sussex Martlets 131 all out by 104 runs

The Stragglers of Asia, who mark their centenary in 2025, do not measure success in silverware. Like the Brigands, they value the memories and friendships gained from playing timed-cricket, but the Stragglers fixture list is more international and exotic. The club was forged in the Simla Hills where a Colonel in the Royal Artillery accepted an invitation from the Maharajah of Patiala to bring a team to a newly-built mountaintop ground. There, cricket met cocktails, with matches punctuated by billiards, hockey, and the legendary “Patiala Peg” – a whisky measure requiring both pinky and index finger. Stragglers elected to bowl first, and with the new ball, overcast conditions, and accurate bowling, runs were hard to come by early on. Mo Ali was wrapped on the pads LBW, then Guy Ladenburg was run out coming back for an ambitious second. Dave Henderson and Charlie Peach dug in, the former blocking his first 14 balls without scoring as the score crept slowly up to 21-2 off 12 overs. Then leg spin came into the attack, and both batters hit over the infield and pounced on anything overpitched. After drinks, in the 23rd over, Peach was stumped and Harry Woolvine mis-timed a mid-wicket pull and was caught at mid-wicket. 77-4. Henderson and Jake Peach know each other's game well, and put on a stand of 95 in just 13 overs, interrupted only by a splendid lunch of coronation chicken and summer pavlova. After lunch, Henderson was judged LBW for 72 off 68 balls off Danny Dawson, and Dave Turner and Lee Gray came and went in quick succession. With a century seemingly inevitable, and the declaration on hold, Peach hit a skier towards the farmer's field and was brilliantly caught by Faris Kaider on the boundary to end the innings. In another act of jug avoidance, Jake Peach out for 96 off 118 balls Brigands come out to defend 247 runs Ed Hands opened the bowling down the hill and, like Steve Harmison in The Ashes, his first ball set the tone with a leg-side wide. He was so off form he took himself off after 2 overs. Stragglers' veteran opening batter Tim Lerwill, 76, is strong on the off-side and he cut and cover drove at will. Conventional fields don’t apply here. He and Harry Everett took the score to 80 in just 14 overs before Lewill was run out. At tea, there were cakes, speeches, and a port toast; a hat tip to the Beardall and Northwood families for such an incredible spread. The game was evenly poised with eight wickets remaining and the run rate required just under 7 runs per over. Rafi Abdeen was introduced to slow the pace of the ball, and “Baby Murali” managed to get the ball to turn and induced a catch to Henderson at long on. Another run out in the next over, Mike Beardhall took a wicket with a Woolvine catch at mid-wicket, and then a smart stumping from Charlie Peach of Abdeen. Six wickets down, the Stragglers decided to drop anchor and play for a draw, so the Brigand's got into an on-pitch huddle to talk tactics. Ali came on, bowled slowly, and the ball spun immediately. Ladenburg too took the pace off. Wickets fell steadily and it was down to the last pair, Kabir Haider and Danny Dawson, to survive 6 overs. There were a few near misses, and the tension was evident as Haider prodded the pitch between balls. "More gardening than Monty Don" was heard. Then a Haider defensive shot bounced backwards and glanced the off stump, and dislodged the bail. Brigands victors by 90 runs, an early enough finish to watch the Lionesses triumph in a penalty shoot-out against Spain in the Final of Euro 2025, and early enough to enjoy the company of two teams who live and breathe the spirit of cricket. Stragglers started well and were on target until Harry Everett was out Changing room team talk, Gerry Northwood mowing the outfield, The Toss, The Centenary Coin, Huddle-cam. The Bat & Ball Brigands 247-9 declared beat Stragglers of Asia 157 all out by 90 runs

A day for the Life Vice Presidents to meet, and for a mid-week low-scoring match at the cradle of cricket. Brigands 138-9 declared drew with Whitchurch 133-8. Gerry Northwood 34, and Rafi Abdeen 29 top scored, and Jon Dennis took 5-17, for the Brigands. Brigands v Whitchurch, 2025 Picture credits Nick Harris, Gerry Northwood and Kris Newton

On the 250th anniversary of John Small’s first hundred in first-class cricket, achieved at Broadhalfpenny Down, it was fitting that a three-figure score was recorded in the match against the alumni of St Andrews University. Unfortunately for the Brigands it was scored by the Seagullians' opening batter on a day when the extreme heat, short boundary, and parched outfield got the better of the home team. The customary byes and dropped catches were compounded by a late arrival and then a pulled calf muscle that forced the Captain, Ewan Lovett-Turner, off the field and substituted by his talented teenage daughter, Martha. The runs came thick and fast; the hundred came up in the fifteenth over, the two hundred in the twenty-eighth over, and a sporting declaration came after 32 overs at 252-2 (the highest score of the season). Liam Shrehorn bowled better than his figures of 0-53 off 8 overs whilst Neil Wood was flattered by his figures of 1-47 off 7 overs. Mike Beardall leaked 65 runs and the only positive from the below-par Dave Henderson dropping a catch and conceding 22 runs in 1 over was that it brought forward the declaration. Even with fielders on the boundary, Seagullians scored at more than 8 runs per over After tea, Brigands front-loaded the batting order; Guy Ladenburg and Adam Jay opened and took the score, effortlessly, to 36. But in the blink of an eye, Ladenburg (23) was bowled middle stump, then we lost Adam and his son, Zeb Jay, in the same over. Dougie Henderson (31) and Dave Turner (52) came together in a partnership of 80 runs scored quickly; both hit the ball over the top of the infield and were prepared to take risks. For the first time in living memory, there was a “7” recorded in the scorebook when 4 overthrows were added to 3 runs hit to long-on. The pitch side barbecue was fired up, and Seagullians rotated their bowlers as Brigands chased down 135 from the last 20 overs. Turner raised his lovely new bat to celebrate his half-century, and there were emotional tears and loud applause from his family around The Monument. At last. Meanwhile, Liam Shrehorn was going well and hit six boundaries and ran on every ball as the run rate came down, but he was losing batting partners. It was 16 runs to win from 12 balls with 2 wickets in hand. A swipe, a miss hit, some quick singles, and then a caught and bowled as Wood trudged back to the pavilion after a useful 17. With Shrehorn on strike and 10 needed from the last over all results were possible; two singles scampered from the first two balls, a two, a dot ball, and then Shrehorn was caught by the wicketkeeper on 48, which meant substitute Richie Hay came in, last man, with four runs needed to tie. Hay, an unlikely hero sporting a white wide-brimmed floppy hat, drove the last ball for a single, and the match was drawn. The players retired for a cold shower and a hot dog or two, and reflected on how timed cricket can throw up an enjoyable, and close, 500-run match despite the gulf in talent between the two teams. More of the same next year please. Brigands & Old Seagullians, 2025 Seagullians 253-2 declared drew with Brigands 250-9 Watch a 90-second match highlights video here With thanks to Kris Newton for additional photographs