Cricket Week Launch & Lunch

A gathering of guests from the Club, the Town and the School will meet at Old Dryden, formely the Dolphin Inn (opposite St Peter's Church) to commomorate the Bicentenary and launch the Cricket Week. Following these proceedings, the party will walk up to Milton Road where a buffet lunch will be served ahead of the first match of the week.

Why visit the site of the old Dolphin Inn? On the day in June 1826 that the Club was formed, following the first ever OTCC match it was reported in the Huntingdon Journal... "After the sports of the day, the party partook of an elegant entertainment at the Dolphin Inn; the “rosy wine” was briskly circulated, “auld acquaintances were brought to mind”, new friendships formed". The full report can be seen at our History Page.

Oundle Town U13 vs League XI

A team made up of some of OTCC's best young cricketers will represent Oundle against a select representative XI from the Higham & District Youth League.

Somersham Brass Band

Evoking an era of times gone by, the Somersham Town Band will perform a vibrant repertoire ranging from classical numbers to big band swing, as well as a special cricket tune that will be played especially for the occasion.

Brass bands were first being formed around 200 years ago, with the Somersham Band having themselves a hundred years of tradition behind them. Under the baton of David Chambers (BEM) the concert promises to be great fun to be played in two sets sitting either side of our guest speaker. N.B. This event is free of charge - all welcome.

Q&A With Darren Lehmann 'Boof'

Cricket is a game of great moments, fierce rivalries… and the occasional Australian who somehow becomes one of England’s favourites. We are delighted to welcome one such character to the club for a special evening of stories, insight and entertaining cricket conversation.

Our guest is Darren Lehmann - former Australian international, Ashes competitor, county favourite and highly respected coach. Affectionately known as “Boof,” Lehmann enjoyed a long and distinguished playing career, representing Australia with distinction during one of their most dominant eras. A powerful left-handed batsman with a fierce competitive streak, he earned admiration not only for his performances but for his deep understanding of the game.

English supporters will also remember his successful spells in county cricket, where he became a popular and familiar figure. Today, as head coach of Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, he continues to shape the game, bringing experience, passion and a strong Midlands connection that makes this evening especially meaningful for our local cricketing community.

Leading the Q&A will be BBC cricket broadcaster Andrew Radd, OTCC member, scorer, and widely respected for his thoughtful and engaging broadcasting style. Expect a relaxed, lively interview covering Ashes memories, dressing-room stories, coaching insights and plenty of humour, followed by audience questions.

Join us for what promises to be an entertaining, memorable and truly special night of cricket. No tickets required - a FREE EVENT, so don’t miss it.

Somersham Brass Band

The brass band returns to the marquee to play more foot tapping favourites, ramping up pace and building the atmosphere to include a selection of patriotic numbers in the lead up to the big match kick off.

England World Cup Match on The Big Screen

Just when you thought the evening couldn’t offer any more sporting drama, we’ll be switching codes. After our cricket celebrations, the focus turns to the beautiful game as we show England vs Croatia live on the big screen in the event marquee, England's first match of the World Cup with kick-off 9pm live from Arlington, USA.

Yes, we know… football in the middle of a cricket week - but even the most devoted cricket fan won’t want to miss this one. The marquee will be match-ready, the screen will be big, the bar & beer festival well stocked, the atmosphere lively, and you can settle in knowing you won’t miss a single kick, tackle or dramatic moment.

Oundle Town vs The MCC

One of the true highlights of our celebration week is the honour of hosting Marylebone Cricket Club, a name woven into the very fabric of cricket history. Fixtures against the MCC are always special, carrying tradition, sportsmanship and a deep respect for the game, and this promises to be no exception. The match will be played as a full-day timed fixture to allow all to enjoy the classic long-form cricket format rarely seen these days. We will start at 11am with lunch taken at 1pm, and following tea play will finish at the completion of 20 overs from 5pm. Hosting the MCC is a first for OTCC and spectators can expect a wonderful day of competitive but friendly cricket, played in the true spirit of the game, with plenty of time to relax, socialise and soak up the occasion.

Colin Davies XI vs Gary Palmer XI

A special T20 fixture that departs from the annual CDT20 format, whereby a Colin Davies XI will take on a Gary Palmer XI led by their sons George and Mark Davies, and Matt Palmer. This match will bring together a wonderful mix of past and present players, the social cricketers, characters and friends who helped shape the spirit of the club over many years.

Expect fun, memories, and a fitting celebration of two much-loved cricketing lives. More than just a game, the evening is a tribute to two true stalwarts of Oundle cricket, Colin Davies and Gary Palmer, both of whom gave countless hours to the club and the game they loved. Played on the very field where they spent so much time, this promises to be a joyful occasion filled with laughter, friendly rivalry and the occasional bit of mischief.

South African Tours Reunion

In 2003 OTCC mustered a touring party to visit South Africa timed to coincide with the Cricket World Cup and play a series of matches. Then in 2007 OTCC took 30 junior players and their families over to South Africa for a tour of the Western Cape with two age group teams. It is hoped that many who took part in these highly successful overseas tours will be able to gather in the marquee to share stories, rekindle memories whilst watching tour slideshows and also perhaps gather for the debut of the long lost 2003 Tour Video which has reportedly been found.

Oundle Town vs The Jazz Hats

A special guest side will take on OTCC in a highly unusual match where the teams will play according to the laws of cricket from 1826, 1926 and 2026. The Jazz Hats XI is to be formulated from the ranks of a selection of local friendly cricket clubs such as The Strokers and The Howitzers - sides known for their racy headgear. Played as a 30 over match, every 10 overs the format will change to the nominated era. This untried and untested format is a first as far as we know, and will surely not only test the teams but also the umpires and scorers on the day. All are welcome to come and witness the spectacle.

Junior Fun Night & Training

Families and youngsters are invited to Milton Road to enjoy a cut down training session where fun cricket games will be laid on with the added attraction of a fun bouncy inflatable. While the kids are playing, the adults will be able to take advantage of the bar, beer festival, BBQ food and for one night only, a wine & prosecco bar supplied by Amps Wine.

Band: Five String Thing

Friday night brings something a little different, as we’re absolutely delighted to welcome Five String Thing to our celebration marquee. The group are a lively folk and ceilidh band known for their infectious, toe-tapping tunes. Their sound is unmistakably traditional, driven by a mix of two fiddles, mandolin, guitar, double bass and accordion. While Five String Thing are seasoned ceilidh specialists, this won’t be a formal dance evening with callers and set routines, instead, think of it as an upbeat folk session with atmosphere. The band will play and entertain throughout the evening, providing the perfect soundtrack for parents, families, friends and folk lovers gathered together in the marquee. And when the the rhythm takes hold, you’ll be more than welcome to get up and dance along.

Oundle Town 1st XI vs Loddington CC

Saturday morning brings us back to the heart of the cricketing action as our First XI take to the field at Milton Road for a Northants Premier Division fixture against Loddington Cricket Club, starting at 11:00am. Played in traditional whites and as a full win/lose/draw contest, this is league cricket at its most competitive and hard-fought.

For those visiting as part of our bicentenary celebrations, this is a perfect opportunity to see our flagship side in action and experience the standard of cricket we compete at week in, week out. Settle in for the day, enjoy the atmosphere, and support the team as they represent the club on home soil.

1826 Bicentenary Bash

The centrepiece of our celebrations and the jewel in the crown of Bicentenary Week is the '1826 Bicentenary Bash', an unforgettable evening to be held in our pitchside marquee at Milton Road.

This relaxed and informal evening begins with a drinks reception accompanied by the wonderful sounds of the The Stamford Stompers, whose lively Dixieland jazz will set the tone as guests arrive, mingle and soak in the occasion. Their uplifting sound will carry us smoothly into the evening as the celebrations unfold and guests take their places to enjoy a multi-course sit-down dinner buffet, expertly prepared by the renowned local caterers Stanley Street, promising a tantalising dining experience. With fine food, great company and a celebratory atmosphere, the evening aims to reflect the pride, heritage and spirit of the club.

Following dinner, there will be speeches, reflections and a few surprises along the way, moments to celebrate our past, honour those who shaped it, and look ahead to the future. As the formalities give way to festivity, the night continues with music and dancing ensuring the celebrations will carry on well into the night.

With just 120 places available, this exclusive, ticketed evening promises to be one of the most memorable moments in our 200-year history. At £45, it represents exceptional value for a truly special occasion - one you won’t want to miss. Dress is 'smart summer casual', carriages at midnight. TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW

Oundle Town U11s League Match

Our Bicentenary Week is not only about past heroes and senior cricket, it’s also about the future of the game. Representing the next generation, our Under 11 Badgers - the older of our two U11 sides will take to the field for a league fixture against Rushden & Higham Town CC Under 11B. Do drop in to see a match that will played in great spirit and with plenty of energy, with the young cricketers representing the club with pride.

Oundle Town Legends vs The County Masters

Sunday afternoon brings the headline cricketing spectacle of our Bicentenary Weekend with a T20 clash packed with pedigree, pride and familiar faces.

Leading the charge for the home side will be Cameron Wake, a player of real stature in Oundle Town Cricket Club’s modern history. Cameron returns to Milton Road to captain an Oundle Town Legends XI, assembling a scratch side of past and present players who have worn the badge with distinction and played their part in some of the club’s most memorable victories. Expect competitive spirit, class and more than a few flashes of former brilliance.

Standing in their way will be the County Masters, a formidable opposition put together by Northamptonshire representatives from Wantage Road. Featuring ex-professional cricketers, well-known county names and a few surprise guests, this is no gentle exhibition. It promises to be high-quality, hard-fought cricket played at an excellent standard.

This 20-over contest is the focal point of the weekend and a real draw for cricket lovers from Oundle and beyond. Best of all, entry is FREE OF CHARGE, so bring a chair, gather round the boundary and enjoy an afternoon of top-class cricket and familiar faces celebrating 200 years of Northamptonshire's oldest club.

Oundle Town U14 Girls vs Invitation XI

Closing our Bicentenary Cricket Week in style, our Under-14 Girls XI take centre stage against an Invitation Girls XI. This exhibition match celebrates the exciting growth of girls cricket and the vital role it plays in the club’s future. Full of energy, ambition and promise, it’s a fitting way to round off the week, as we look ahead to the next 200 years of cricket in Oundle.