The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) Cricket Club in East London is highlighted as a unique historical oasis, rich in over 300 years of cricket history, including the first recorded match in 1725 and the earliest known instance of ticketed cricket. Despite its imperial past, the club now fosters a diverse 'commonwealth of players,' demonstrating cricket's adaptability and community-building power. The article also discusses the ideal location for World Test Championship finals (England) and recent cricket news.
‘Unlike any cricket ground in the UK’: the London oasis every player should visit
SportsCricket
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) Cricket Club in East London is highlighted as a unique historical oasis, rich in over 300 years of cricket history, including the first recorded match in 1725 and the earliest known instance of ticketed cricket. Despite its imperial past, the club now fosters a diverse 'commonwealth of players,' demonstrating cricket's adaptability and community-building power. The article also discusses the ideal location for World Test Championship finals (England) and recent cricket news.
- 1 1725: First recorded cricket match at HAC.
- 2 June 2, 1744: Earliest known instance of ticketed cricket match.
- 3 May 1775: Edward "Lumpy" Stevens' game led to the common use of three stumps.
- 4 1785: Use of three stumps codified in laws.
- 5 Late 18th century: Cricket at HAC was under threat.
- 6 1846: Prince Albert sanctioned cricket at HAC.
- 7 Second Boer War: HAC's first overseas deployment, six members killed.
- 8 First World War: Play suspended, pitch used for military training.
- 9 Second World War: Play continued.
- 10 2011: Alastair Cook's 294 knock at Edgbaston.
- 11 June 2025 (Last month): South Africa's triumph over Australia at Lord's.
- 12 July 2, 2025: Article published, current matches at Edgbaston and Headingley.
- Preservation of cricket history
- Fostering of diverse community through sport
- Ongoing debate about World Test Championship final locations
- Continued interest in cricket matches and player performances
What: The historical significance and unique nature of the HAC Cricket Club in London, its role in cricket history, and its modern diverse community, alongside broader discussions on cricket's global events and recent matches.
When: First recorded match in 1725, earliest ticketed match June 2, 1744, first paid match two weeks later, middle stump codified 1785, Prince Albert sanction 1846, Second Boer War (late 19th/early 20th century), First World War (1914-1918), Second World War (1939-1945), Alastair Cook's knock in 2011, Jofra Archer 30 years old (current), Lord's match last month (June 2025), Edgbaston and Headingley matches (current).
Where: East London (Old Street, City Road, Bunhill Fields), HAC Cricket Club, UK, Jamaica, Rawalpindi, South Africa, Lord's, Wankhede Stadium, Kensington Oval, Edgbaston, Headingley, York, Trent Bridge.
Why: To celebrate the unique history and enduring appeal of the HAC Cricket Club, to argue for England as the permanent host for World Test Championship finals, and to provide updates on recent cricket events.
How: Through historical anecdotes, personal reflections from club members, and journalistic commentary on cricket matches and policies.