The annual match between the Dorset Men’s first team and the professionals of Hampshire CCC takes place on Sunday 21st July. This regular fixture is the only opportunity to see professional cricket in Dorset each year.
As part of Dorset’s membership to the National Counties Cricket Association (NCCA), the team are offered an opportunity to play a first-class county in a single game each year to showcase the talents that exist in the NCCA – and in Dorset Cricket! Dorset’s relationship with Hampshire is strong and they are always happy to visit Wimborne for this annual match.
Dorset’s talent pathway is very closely aligned to Hampshire’s and has been used as a supply line to their professional ranks with five players moving from Dorset to Hampshire into first class cricket in the past nine years. Last year, four of those players took part in the match for Hampshire.
Currently, Dorset has two former Dorset Pathway players involved with Hampshire’s Academy – both hope to be the sixth successful graduate!
A grand day out
‘Last year, the weather reduced the length of the match to 22 overs,’ says Dorset Cricket Managing Director, Ben Skipworth. ‘But we counted ourselves lucky – we were one of only two NCCA Showcase matches in the country to see any cricket on the day!
‘Our ‘old boys’ did not disappoint last year: Tom scored a half-century, Joseph hit a massive six, Scott bowled accurately and Eddie grabbed four wickets with some fine fast bowling.
‘Despite the weather, around 250 people watched the match last year. We are firmly aiming for 500 spectators this year! There will be food and drink for purchase on the day and our Community Team will be running an interactive zone for our younger spectators to visit during the match.
There will also be opportunities to purchase Dorset Cricket merchandise and for visitors to come and talk to staff and players during the day.
‘The match has been supported by the Hendy Group – our main match sponsor – and No More Stumps, who are the match ball sponsors. Wimborne Cricket Club will be operating a barbecue all day and Pamphill Dairy will be selling ice-cream. Should any other local businesses want to attend, please do get in touch with me –
ben.skipworth@dorset-cricket.co.uk.
Grab your chairs and come along to support The Leopards (or The Hawks!). Enjoy the cricket and everything else on offer during the day in what will be a great opportunity to showcase the best of Dorset’s cricketing talent.’
The 2024 NCCA Showcase match – Dorset Leopards v Hampshire Hawks
Sunday 21st July
11am to 7.30pm.
Wimborne Cricket Club
BH21 1DY
Advance tickets now on sale at £10 per adult, under 18s free when accompanied by a paying adult. Gate price £12, card payment only on gate
ADVANCE TICKETS HERE
