Hampshire Seniors Cricket: Join the Fun, Competition, and Camaraderie!

Cricket isn’t just a game for the young; it’s a sport that can be enjoyed well into your 50s, 60s, and even 70s. In Hampshire, the Seniors Cricket league offers players the chance to continue their cricketing journey, combining the spirit of competition with a love of the game.

Hampshire Seniors Cricket is currently home to six teams: three in the 50s age group, two in the 60s, and one in the 70s. All teams compete in National Leagues, with matches scheduled across various days of the week: Tuesdays for the 60s, Wednesdays for the 50s, and Thursdays for the 50s and 70s. Each match consists of 45 overs, and teams initially compete in league programmes against neighbouring counties before progressing to play-offs, including quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals.

Over the years, several players from the Hampshire Seniors teams have represented England on the international stage. Most recently, Nick Gagaro (New Milton) played for the 60s squad in the Grey Ashes in Australia, while Paul Garlick (Bournemouth) and John Whiting (Bashley) also represented England in 2024. Other notable past players who have gone on to achieve international honours include Micky Swain (Gosport), Geoff Owen (Havant), Ian Watson (Deanery), Jim Smallbone (Petersfield), Martin Hall (Easton), Neil Blackey, and Keith Harsham. Could you be the next Hampshire player to make it to the international stage?

The Hampshire 70s team achieved national glory in 2016 and 2017, winning the national competition. Though recent seasons have been more challenging, the goal remains clear: to compete fiercely and secure victories in the competitions they enter.

As the new season approaches, Hampshire Seniors Cricket is seeking new players to join their ranks. Prospective players should have a decent cricketing record, with many new members returning to the game after a few years’ break or encouraged by family members. If you're looking to pick up your bat again, now’s the time!

In addition to welcoming new players, the club is also in need of scorers. There is remuneration for both scorers and umpires, and current club scorers are encouraged to get involved. Volunteers are also sought to fill a range of roles within the club, offering the chance to contribute to the success of Hampshire Seniors Cricket.

The club is hosting practice sessions at Winchester College ahead of the new season, with nets and, weather permitting, practice matches scheduled before the league programme begins.

If you’re aged 49 or above and interested in learning more about joining the Hampshire Seniors Cricket team or taking on a volunteer role, Club Chairman Peter Green and Club Secretary Sue Simpson are ready to speak with you. Peter can be reached by email at peteggreen@yahoo.co.uk, and Sue at hscricketsec@gmail.com.

With a rich history of success and a bright future ahead, Hampshire Seniors Cricket offers the perfect opportunity for players and officials alike to get involved, stay active, and enjoy the game they love.