UPDATED: The Isle of Wight looks set to host a Hampshire County Cricket Championship match for the first time in almost 60 years in May next year.
According to the sport website The Cricketer, World Cup fixtures at the Ageas Bowl means that the Hampshire team will be heading for Newclose Cricket Ground on the outskirts of Newport from 20th May 2019.
The last time Hampshire played on the Isle of Wight was back in 1962 when they visited the J Samuel White ground in Cowes.
Discussions are said to be underway to fund additional drainage at the Newclose site, which is located near Blackwater. The ground is currently on the market for £800,000.
It is claimed that Hampshire will be playing on the Island more regularly over the next few years thanks to a deal with Red Funnel.
UPDATE TUESDAY – Hampshire Cricket have confirmed that they will be playing Nottinghamshire at Newclose, with the 4-day match beginning on Monday 20th May 2019.
Rod Bransgrove, Hampshire Cricket Chairman has said:
“Due to the exclusivity period around its ICC World Cup Tournament commitments next season, Hampshire Cricket is required to play a home fixture away from the Ageas Bowl and we are very excited to be staging a debut First Class fixture at Newclose Cricket Ground on the Isle of Wight. Having played Second XI matches there in recent years, we know that Newclose is a fantastic facility, with a good wicket and plenty of space for members and supporters”.
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It has also been confirmed that thanks to a partnership with Red Funnel, Members and Supporters travelling to the Island for the fixture will be able to receive up to a 60% discount on travel.
