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The winds whipped across the historic Broadhalfpenny Down as the Brigands took to the field against a disciplined Old Wykehamists side. Before play there were the logistical hurdles you expect in village cricket; a missing scoreboard powerpack, player injuries, a late change of wicket as the Under 15s had used the the Sunday pitch by mistake, and a very large marquee left behind on the boundary from a wedding the night before. In the interest of safety, a local rule was implemented that any six that was hit between the marquee and the Monument would be counted as a dot ball. Batting first, the Brigands started brightly as Gerry Northwood and Neil Wood took advantage of the early overs. However, Old Wykehamists’ bowlers were relentless, with their a tight line and length that made scoring difficult. Wood looked in fine touch for a bowler opening the batting, driving and cutting with fluency, but his promising innings was abruptly ended by a stunning one-handed catch from the visiting wicketkeeper—arguably the moment of the session. After setting 206 for 9 in their 38 overs—thanks to a swashbuckling 56 from Dave Henderson and supporting knocks from Adam Jay (35) and Gerry Northwood (31)—the Brigands returned to the field after a sumptuous tea, complete with flower decorations, eager to defend their total. Ed Hands and Guy Ladenburg led the charge with the new ball, but Old Wykehamists settled in quickly, finding rhythm in their chase. The Brigands did manage breakthroughs, with wickets for Hands, Wood, Mike Beardall, and Dougie Henderson, but Chris Villiers anchored the innings masterfully with a sparkling 72. He was ably supported by Maclay, who contributed a controlled 50 before retiring with a sore leg and strained vocal chords :). Despite their best efforts, the Brigands could not stall the visitors' momentum, as Old Wykehamists reached the target with four overs to spare. Although the result didn’t go the Brigands’ way, the match delivered another entertaining afternoon on the Down—where camaraderie, competition, cream tea and cricket came together in perfect harmony. Brigands 206-9 declared lost to Old Wykehamists 207-5 by 5 wickets Match Report by Jim Morris

A book that combines two of our favourite things; cricket and beer. Leading beer writer and cricket enthusiast Roger Protz toured county and village grounds in his excellent book, "The Beer Lover's Guide to Cricket". He traces the fascinating story of the birth of the modern game at the Broadhalfpenny ground in Hampshire opposite a pub, the Bat & Ball, and shows how the tradition of good beer and cricket is kept alive at many grounds. The Broadhalfpenny Down pavilion is shown, together with the interior of the pub.

Hambledon Cricket Club & Broadhalfpenny Brigands Cricket Club will be the main beneficiaries of pitch and ground improvements from the corwdfunding campaign ... please join in and make a contribution if you can. Just 5 weeks to go ... https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket#start

Did you know that there are two ways of making a donation through our crowdfunding? A simple cash donation, online or bank transfer Choose one of the "rewards" and in return for the donation, you can receive a special thank-you. There are rewards for a cricket shirt by former England Cricket Captain Charlotte Edwards, mini-bats, ground hire for the day for your own exclusive party, and Life Membership with sparkling wine from Hambledon Vineyard. Two full-size bats were a gift from our friends at B3, which retail at £350 each, but you can get them on the crowdfunding site for half price and make a difference to the Brigands. We are at 65% and have less than 40 days to go; some of the rewards have already "sold out".

At any cricket club, the title of Life Vice President is among the highest honours that can be bestowed. It recognises individuals who have given outstanding, long-term service and shown an unwavering commitment to the club’s success. More than just a ceremonial title, it acknowledges years, often decades, of selfless contribution, whether through ground maintenance, playing, administration, fundraising, or simply being a steadfast supporter. Broadhalfpenny Brigands Life Vice Presidents are more than valued members; they are custodians of the club’s spirit and values. Through their actions, they embody the traditions of sportsmanship, community, and dedication that define the club’s identity. They lead by example, inspiring current and future generations to cherish and uphold what makes the club special. Their legacy ensures that the club’s proud history continues to thrive, making the role not only an honour but a vital part of the Brigands' future. Our distinguished Broadhalfpenny Brigands Life Vice Presidents are: Anthony Banes-Walker Nigel Lovett-Turner John Musters Sir Roy Newman Peter Tuke Clive Barnett Bryan Burns Nick Harris Harry Bates. Some of the Broadhalfpenny Brigands Life Vice Presidents; Nigel rolling the pitch, John in front of the scoreboard, Sir Roy with Clive at the Club dinner, Clive (again) at Blenheim, Bryan & Nick umpiring the 250th match, and Harry patrolling the Western boundary.

On the 15th of June 1741 - with The Hambledon Club yet to establish itself - Stansted Park played host to a match between Portsmouth and Slindon cricket clubs, watched by 5,000 people according to a letter from the Duke of Richmond. The beautiful mansion house near Rowlands Castle still hosts a cricket club today, made up of gentlemen from Hampshire and West Sussex who play their cricket in a jovial spirit. Brigands won the toss and sent in Mike Beardall and Dave Turner to face opening bowler and blacksmith Pete Clutterbuck - known in cricketing circles as the Meon Valley Destroyer on account of a memorable five-wicket haul in the 1990s; if you drive around Portsmouth and spot an elegant wrought iron gate, it’s a safe bet it was handcrafted by Clutterbuck. Both opening batters were out clean bowled, Rupert Preece in next was LBW after a handsome 23, and then Dave Henderson and Paul Whittle put on a brisk 40 with cheeky singles and cut shots. The bowlers had to negotiate a 40 miles per hour wind blowing towards the Bat and Ball Pub; the heavy bails were on and the sight screens tethered down. It was so gusty the bell had to be taken down when the Pavilion started ringing like a little fishing boat on a foggy day in the North Sea. Gerry Northwood and Jake Peach came together at 107-6; then 9 overs, 40 minutes and 1 lost ball later, Brigands declared at 196-6 with both batters finding gaps between and over the fielders. Bryan Burns was umpiring so Pam Burns was back with the best scones in village cricket, the Sargant family did the rest. A top tea and a longer than usual tea break to enjoy it. It’s not often Brigands can field two new debutants who both bowl; John Dennis, an affable Kiwi who loves to fish and bowl left-arm spin, and Adam Joy, a flighty wrist spinner who would be a top cricketer if he didn’t have a weekend job. Both learned the Brigands way with a dropped catch and missed stumping in the first few overs. Dennis took matters into his own hands with a one-handed caught and bowled, then the most improved player of the season Whittle held a fine catch at point, and Peach took one for the team with a fine stop using his shin at short mid-off. The most mercurial fielding team in Hampshire were back. Neil Wood wobbled the ball in the wind and picked up three quick wickets to reduce Stansted Park to 78-8. There was a point when Joy was bowling to his Dad with Uncle Gary at the non-strikers end. When Tim Joy hit his son for 4 past Whittle at mid-on the bowler said “if he does that again I’m telling Mum”. The score got to 114 with Sam Sargant running in and bowling up the hill into the wind, blowing like a horse carrying a very heavy load. He got his wicket with an away -swinging Yorker and the innings closed shortly after. Brigands 196-6 declared beat Stansted Park 120 all out by 76 runs

In the first 3 weeks since launch, more than 80,000 people have watched The Final Cut, a film that features Brigands and Broadhalfpenny Down. Many are from overseas, especially India, and one of our most successful links has been from people watching the live stream of Hampshire CCC matches on YouTube. If you havent watched it yet, its available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gl6NzysDKSk. Please Like, and leave a nice comment, as positive engagement helps YouTube distribute this further for us.

In a One Day International, after the power play with its bountiful scoring opportunities, is the tricky middle-overs phase. We are in Week 5 of 12 in the Crowdfunding Campaign - our own tricky phase - and this is where we need everyone who hasn't yet to engage. Donating a match fee is great. It's £14 and keeps up momentum. Of course, grander gestures are welcome and there are some unique rewards available for donations. We are in the melting-pot for an ECB grant of £2,500 but that is contingent upon us getting to the £10,000 target in July. So please click the link; if every Brigand donated a match fee we would hit our target and unlock further grants. https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket

Broadhalfpenny Brigands play most of their games at home, and any away fixture must be within a six-hit of a drinking establishment. We are delighted that the we set 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, and a bar within a six-hit. 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 . There are 3 playing slots left. Opporto Cricket Club

This week marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day, a moment to honour the bravery of those who helped bring the Second World War to its close on 8 May 1945, and a moment that was beautifully celebrated in Hambledon village. Veterans and civilians alike endured unimaginable hardship—storming beaches, decoding secrets, tending the wounded—yet most refuse to dwell on their deeds, insisting they “were just doing their duty.” A world away, at Broadhalfpenny Down, ten volunteers tackled their own trial of endurance erecting the marquee. Armed with hammers, poles, and an unwavering sense of purpose. Sweaty and sunburnt, they too shun the spotlight, insisting their effort is simply “what needed doing.” Thank you to all the volunteers who made this happen, who gave up their time for the. gerater good. It really is appreciated, and it helps make Broadhalfpenny Down a special place for players and visitors alike. You can help preserve the cradle of cricket by making a small contribution to our crowdfunding campaign at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket , and you can see the remarkable voluteering spirit in the film "The Final Cut" which is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gl6NzysDKSk .

On the boundary, a teenage girl sat on a blanket with her Mum, studying Hamlet for her English A-Level revision in the shade of the trees by The Bat & Ball pub. At the crease, actor Jonathan Cake and director Sir Sam Mendes, both well-versed in Shakespeare. The delights of English village cricket. Other spectators included Sir Roy Newman, who reminded the batters to “play straight for the first twenty minutes,” Brigands' first Life Member*, Graham Peach, and a family who enjoyed a picnic whilst kids played "1-2-3-In" with the Monument to the Glory of cricket as "home base". Adam Jay (29) and Gerry Northwood (38) opened for the Brigands, compiling a polished 50 against some tight bowling from the Occasionals. Northwood came down the track and edged to the keeper who caught the ball and whipped off the bails; the batter didn't think he was out but the Umpires thought he doth protest too much and he was adjudged caught and stumped off the same delivery! Northwood was caught and stumped in the same delivery Dave Henderson took advantage of the slope and fast outfield with a series of late cuts on his way to 31 before hitting to long-off and caught one-handed by Nandrish. Most cricketers convert Paul Whittle’s runs like dog years, so his majestic 17 off 31 balls—with a couple of back-foot pull-shots—was celebrated like a century. To thine own self be true. Guy Ladenburg drove and hooked his way to a well-deserved fifty but he lost partners at the other end. In the 37th over, Sam Mendes stepped off for a one-over comfort break—only to return and find the score had improbably leapt from 195-4 to 206-7 as Dave Turner, Jim Morris, and Steve Blackburn all succumbed to Nandrish’s guile. Turner, Morris, and Blackburn all fell in the same over A declaration at 213 left the Occasionals an intriguing target on a good pitch with a swift outfield. After a delightful tea—served for the first time this season in the marquee—both openers fell within ten minutes: one LBW to Sam Sargant and the other caught by Northwood above his head in the gulley off Neil Wood. Milo Fletcher, a Brigand through and through, had been loaned to the Occasionals for the day. A young man with wanderlust and on his way to live in Colombia “because he can”, had nobly decided to pen the scorebook for the innings. Mendes began brightly, driving one boundary past Whittle, doing yoga stretches in the covers, before missing a nagging low delivery that nipped back down the hill. He walked back to the pavilion as ruefully as if Quentin Letts had handed him a one-star review. The Meisner Technique teaches actors to respond to the moment, to be present with their scene partner, to abandon pre-conceived notions, and rely on their instincts to create a noteworthy performance. The moment to respond to, the Meisner moment, arrived in the 17th over. With the score on 56-4, the big-hitting Cake was well set alongside his captain, Chris Strange. Quick runs were vital, and the Brigands set an attacking field with no one on the boundary. Steve Blackburn came on. He is an accomplished undersea engineer and marine-salvage expert. But he is not a strike bowler. He bowls slow, looping, very hittable spinners. But Blackburn wasn't taken on, dot ball followed dot ball, and he returned figures of 5 overs for 10 runs whilst Beardall chipped in with 7 overs for just 23 runs, strangling the scoring rate and leaving the Occasionals with too many runs still needed from the last ten overs. Wood finished with four wickets and Sargant took two. There were the odd dropped catches, of course, but none altered the outcome. In the end, there was no nail-biting finale, no standing ovation—just the gentle conclusion of a village cricket draw on a gorgeous day with lovely people. After all, there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so. Brigands 213-7 off 39 overs drew with Harry Baldwin Occasionals 151-7 off 37 overs *Life Membership is one of the rewards available in the crowdfunding campaign. Please support us in any way you can. More details at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket

We have welcomed so many world-class photographers to Broadhalfpenny Down. Patrick Eager, Ryan Pierse, Mark Aspland, Dave Vokes, Dave Bodymoore, and Russell Sachs have all graced us with their presence and generously shared some of their imagery. To add to that impressive list, Simon Arnold , an amateur photographer who specialises in football and live music, has been to visit us at the cradle of cricket and has also generously supported our crowdfunding campaign. Welcome to the Brigands family, Simon; here are some of his photographs from 2024 at Broadhalfpenny Down.

A film that tells the story of national treasure Harry Bates' final year as Honorary Groundsperson at Broadhalfpenny Down, in Hampshire, where the very first First Class match was played in 1772. It's a story of love, preservation, tradition, and legacy told through archive footage and interviews with broadcaster Robbie James. Released 1.5.25. Made by Spice Productions.

A film about Harry Bates and the Spirit of Broadhalfpenny Down premieres The story follows Harry and his wife Nina through their final season in 2024, facing the unpredictability of the English weather to the relentless challenges posed by mischievous moles. Their humour, resilience, and shared love for the game shine throughout. Featuring rarely seen archive footage and candid interviews with players past and present, The Final Cut offers a rich, layered portrait of a man whose life has been inextricably woven into the grass he tends. The film was Directed by Ollie Lambert and Executive Produced and Presented by Robbie James, who said “For us, this was our dream project to work on. We’ve both got a deep routed love for cricket, and meeting Harry and Nina along with telling the story of such a significant ground has been one of the great joys in both our careers”. On behalf of Broadhalfpenny Brigands CC, David Henderson said “it’s a beautifully told story, about legacy, stewardship, and the enduring spirit of cricket”. Broadhalfpenny Down is currently running a crowd-funding campaign to restore the ground to its former glory, at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket , and are hoping the increased awareness raised by the release of the film will push the fundraising towards its ambitious target.

The Brazilian football team that won the 1970 World Cup in Mexico was probably the greatest team in the history of sport—better than the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s, the Arsenal Invincibles, any All Black rugby side, or the 1948 Australian cricket tourists featuring Sir Don Bradman. It was the first football tournament to allow substitutes, the first held outside Europe or South America, and the first to be shown on colour TV. Their play reached a level that surpassed anything seen before. In six matches, they scored 19 goals of such quality it was more art than sport. It was the tournament when Pelé, aged 29 and at his prime, described football as “the beautiful game", or jogo bonito as the Portuguese newspaper headlines proclaimed. At Broadhalfpenny Down this weekend, there was an unusual and vintage village cricket match against the Sons of Bacchus—an occasional team of strong cricketers from the south of England. Lee Gray and Sam Sargant opened the bowling, and the first ten overs resembled a boxing match: a few jabs, a few punches landed, but no knockouts; the score was 40–1. Neil Wood came on and picked up the wicket of Rob Walton after a stunning catch by Sargant at mid-on, who had stuck out a paw low to his right after running 15 yards. Everyone played their part in the field—even Gerry Northwood, who stood in the same spot on the western boundary for two hours. Dave Turner’s first ball floated, bounced, and fizzed into the gloves of wicketkeeper Matt Saben-Clare. Dave Henderson picked up two wickets, Steve Blackburn another, and Wood—having changed ends—claimed three more wickets, aided by the Baltic wind at his back. Sons of Bacchus scored 221 and were pleased heading into tea, which featured Lizzie Henderson’s homemade sausage rolls, Pam Burns’ cream-and-jam fluffy scones, and Hambledon Stores’ homemade cakes (including a genius Guinness cake). Gray and Saben-Clare opened the batting and looked at ease from ball one. Cut shots, cover drives, and pulls came loose and rapid—like Monet brushstrokes on canvas. They found the gaps, offered no chances, and the busiest person at the ground was Ray Holyer, manning the scoreboard. The target was 222, but the way the Brigands were playing, 333 might have been attainable—and even 444 if time permitted. There was one Saben-Clare straight drive that felt like Brazil’s fourth goal in that epic match against Italy—you know the one, when Pelé lays it off to Carlos Alberto, who blasts the ball from the edge of the box into the top corner. When the openers retired at drinks, Adam Jay and Jim Morris continued the onslaught: Jay balletic and nimble-footed, Morris swishing at anything wide of the stumps. They saw the Brigands home with an hour to spare. The affable Hugo Hardman, playing on debut, asked, “Is it always this high standard?” to which captain Henderson replied, “Hardly ever,” and rephrased Brazilian defender Gérson's description of his team's performance in 1970 “Those who saw it, saw it. Those who didn’t will never see it again.” There is currently a crowdfunding campaign that we would love you to support; any amount is appreciated and there are some unique rewards available https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket

Only village cricketers know the pain of stopping a well-hit ball with an outstretched ankle or taking a mistimed catch squarely on the chest. Welcome to the cricket season, Steve Blackburn and Rupert Preece, each bearing bruises after this weekend’s Brigands match against Vagabonds. The game was delayed slightly: first, waiting for the new clock to strike 1pm, and then for two umpires to join the 22 players, two scorers, a local journalist, and a scattering of spectators, dog walkers, and thirsty, Lycra-clad cyclists at Broadhalfpenny Down. The opening deliveries from Neil Wood and Guy Ladenburg were so loose that the photographer from the Meon Valley Times  asked the captain if this was really the first team. Vagabonds made a steady start, putting on 20 for the first wicket, then accelerating to 100–3 by the 25th over. Umpire John Farquhar, on his first visit to this cradle of cricket, gave Vagabond Edwards out LBW with his very first decision — a verdict bowler Ladenburg heartily endorsed, saying Farquhar was "welcome back any time." Raffi Abdeen flighted the ball and picked up 4 wickets for 33 runs, causing a mid-innings wobble. From 117–7, Vagabonds rallied with the introduction of mystery-spin from Turner, puzzle-spin from Blackburn, and riddle-spin from Henderson. Vagabonds were eventually bowled out for 170 after 40 overs. Bill Bryson once noted that cricket is the only sport built around meal breaks, where spectators burn as many calories as players, and where one can wear white from head to toe and finish as clean as they started. Tea, then, was a feast Bryson would have applauded: fancy sandwiches, homemade scones, and a chocolate tiffin that melted in the mouth. Bravo to the Turner family. Turner & Blackburn edge Brigands close to the total against Vagabonds In reply, Harry Woolvine and Rupert Preece got Brigands off to a flyer — racing to 30 runs off the first five overs. Preece fell to a sharp catch, before Woolvine was aghast at being given LBW — the ball pitching in line and cannoning towards middle stump. Paraphrasing baseball coach Leo Durocher, the young Brigand walked off believing two forces were against him: the umpire and the laws of the game. Dave Henderson and Adam Jay consolidated against spin from both ends and a run-saving ring field. Vagabonds hadn’t accounted for Jay’s unique coaching, more Nick Bollettieri than MCC. Jay judged whether to run on the quality of his shot, not on fielding positions. Fortunate for Brigands, Jay ran almost as fast as Virat Kohli’s record (32.5 km/h), nicking quick singles and turning twos into threes, on his way to a sparkling half-century. After Jay departed, Henderson and Ladenburg quickly followed. With 20 still needed, two of the less fleet-footed Brigands, Dave Turner and Paul Whittle, came together. They eked out nine runs before Whittle was caught at gully. Turner, the proud owner of a new B3 bat won at the Club Dinner, was thankful to the thick edges that kept his new bat looking pristine as he and Steve Blackburn struck the winning runs to see Brigands home by three wickets. Vagabonds will rue a few costly moments: losing their final wicket on the seventh ball of an over, a missed run-out chance late on, and conceding 29 extras. In village cricket, matches are won, lost, and debated (at the Bat & Ball afterwards) over such fine margins. Cricket is back for the summer. A reminder to those with Monday morning aches and pains, and those bearing new bruises, these are treasured reminders of a Sunday well spent with good people, in the South Downs. Brigands 171–7 beat Vagabonds 170 all out, by 3 wickets. https://meonvalleytimes.co.uk/brigands-and-vagabonds-meet-at-historic-broadhalfpenny-down/

The aging pavilion was already leaking before Storm Darragh arrived, which ripped out more tiles and blew the iconic clock away. Ground maintenance equipment is more than a decade old, the practice net is worn and the supports have been bent in the wind. Broadhalfpenny Brigands CC have launched a crowd funding campaign, with an aim to raise £10,000. We will spend money raised in four areas; Fixing the pavilion, and making it more welcoming and accessible to more people Replacing broken mowers Introducing a boundary rope Replacing dangerous practice facilities. We would really appreciate your support with both donations and spreading the word to cricket enthusiasts, community-minded friends, and philanthropists everywhere! More details are on the Crowd Funder site, which is also accessible from the QR code below. Please speak to any member of the Committee if you have any questions or spot any issues. We don't do this very often, so let's get behind this restoration project the Broadhalfpenny Down back to its best, and to welcome cricket lovers from around the world, and in the local community, to enjoy one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in England. Every little bit helps; no contribution is too small, even if you just share with your friends and family. Thank you. https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the first First Class match at Broadhalfpenny Down, supporters were asked to buy a plaque as part of a new installation at the ground. Mike Beardall unveiled the green zinc plaque this week, featuring 13 messages from cricket-loving families; some poetic, some romantic, some funny ("Free beer for umpires?"), which sits at the front of the pavilion. The project has raised over £2,000 for the Preservation Trust and will be an enduring reminder of the 250th year at the cradle of cricket.

We are delighted to welcome Wentbridge Cricket Company as a new partner of Broadhalfpenny Down. Founded by Lee Gray and Michael Van Schalkwyk, Wentbridge was born to create a cricket brand that’s timeless, inclusive, and affordable, without sacrificing quality. Wentbridge is the birthplace of Robin Hood, a symbol of rebellion, heart, and fairness. That same spirit lives in their bat ranges; Rogue, Outlaw, and Legend. Each bat is handcrafted in England, in a carpentry shed, just outside of Edwinstowe, a stone’s throw from Sherwood Forest, and made by South African-born bat maker, Pieter Bekker, who hand-selects every piece of willow that comes from J.S. Wright and Sons, the most trusted name in English willow. Both Broadhalfpenny Brigands and Wenbridge believe that cricket should be for everyone, not just for those with deep pockets. Lee Gray said, "We didn’t want to be just another cricket company charging sky-high prices and big margins. We believe in making cricket accessible to all, without compromising on quality. Top-notch gear, fair prices, no need to steal from the Sheriff. Be a Brigand. Be a Rogue. Be an Outlaw. Be a Legend. " www.wentbridgecricket.online

The crowdfunding has begun, and we have our first 11 supporters, thank you. We have reached 6% of the target in Week One. What we need everyone to do now ... Share the campaign with your friends and family https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/cradleofcricket Make a donation if you can; it doesn't matter how big or small; it will be put to very good use by a frugal and community-loving team who want to make Broadhalfpenny Down a special place to visit for years to come.