Freshers trial info

CUCC will be holding trials for its Blues and Crusaders (2nd XI) squads on Saturdays 24th, 31st and 7th November. All trials will be held at Fenner's Indoor School between 10.00 and 12.00. To book your place, please contact Head Coach Chris Scott (cws24), giving brief details of your cricketing history.

Michael (23 September 2009)

Problems with Site

We are currently experiencing an error with the site which is preventing navigation around the site. We are unsure of the reason for this at present but are working on a solution as fast as possible.

Lynden (21 September 2009)

Free Foresters emerge victorious

The Free Foresters chased down a total of 335 to win by 4 wicket with 4 balls to spare in the only May week fixture this season. That the game was played during this period was clear for all spectators to see; for the first time in living memory The Free Foresters arrived earlier than the University and had to accommodate some late arrivals by bowling first. The visitors did remarkably well considering the score once read 170-2 after 20 overs, the introduction of spin applying the much needed brake to the scoring rate. Anand Ashok batted brilliantly for his century and was ably supported by Scott MacLennan and Rupert Wingate-Saul. In reply, the chase was founded around a superb innings of 150* by the Free Forester opening bat, with contrbutions from Matthew Friedlander, Nick Lee and Paul MacMahon.

James (18 June 2009)

Quidnuncs defeat Harlequins at Arundel

A glorious day at Arundel on Sunday saw the Quidnuncs win the toss and decide to bat. With 10 lively Quidnuncs and one guest (the skipper of last year's Oxford MCCU and the combined MCCU side) the Quidnuncs felt confident. They felt less confident at the end of the Harlequins' new ball spell with Jones G & R, Danson and Hodgson back in the shed. Young (guest) and James steadied the ship but with Young and Heywood's departure either side of lunch, the 'Nuncs were rocking on 106-6. James and Newman then batted beautifully to add 100 and to allow the Quidnuncs to declare on 206-6 after 53 overs leaving the Harlequins approximately 45 overs back. Vice President Melluish showed both sides of his character by questioning the Quidnunc captain why 1. the teams were lunching on separate tables and then 2. why the Quidnuncs had made such a generous declaration (last year the 'quins had chased down 280 in a similar time!) The Harlequins came out in aggressive style but the Quidnuncs are used to batsmen trying to play their shots from the word go. Alberts and Kemp used the new ball beautifully, pitching the ball up to drive and every time the Harlequins looked to be getting ahead of the rate another wicket fell. The last ball before tea saw Alberts bowling to a 9-0 offside field in an effort to get another nick to another outswinger. After tea, the dark blues needed 150 off approximately 30 overs with 7 wickets remaining. At that point the decisive bowling changes were made. A combination of slow turning off breaks from Newman, aggressive medium pace from Young and bouncy left arm non turners from Abington stymied the Harlequin charge and left the 'Nuncs comfortable winners by 50 runs and with 10 overs remaining. The interesting fact of the day was that in the Quidnunc innings a Tonbridge schoolmaster dismissed another Tonbridge schoolmaster and in the Harlequin innings a Monkton Coombe pair repeated the feat, so bragging rights at those schools were shared. Overall though, bragging rights returned to the Quidnuncs, until battle resumes next year. Many thanks to 2 quidnunc vice Presidents, who post the conclusionof Ken Green's many years of kind sponsorship, helped top up the player's match fees to pay the requisite fee to Arundel. Next year, we may move the fixture to Fenner's or the Parks to save cost, but somehow, despite our affiliation to those wonderful grounds, the spiritual home of this game feels like it should remain Arundel!

Michael (05 May 2009)

UCCE draws with Yorkshire

The UCCE's first county match of the season petered out into a tame draw on Monday, as the captains shook hands with more than an hour's play remaining. With Saturday washed out, Yorkshire batted first on Sunday, the UCCE doing well to restrict the professionals to 346 for 9 in the day. Rob Woolley - on first-class debut - impressed, taking 3-71 and three catches, while a brace was claimed by both Jivan Lotay's off-spin and Hughes Hall's Marc Rosenberg. Having declared overnight, Yorkshire's attack provided an expectedly stern test for the UCCE's top order on Monday. From the reasonable position of 39 for 1 with half an hour until lunch, English test players Hoggard and McGrath conspired to reduce the UCCE to a very precarious 48 for 5. Indeed, only a superb 72 from Nick Lee (six fours, two sixes) allowed CUCCE to pass into three figures, finally dismissed for 155. Thereafter, there was little prospect of a result and so Yorkshire opted for a net in the middle. And, when Ruel Brathwaite (Queens') cleaned up Jacques Rudolph with the score on 64, time was called. The full scorecard will be added soon, and Sussex visit Fenner's on Wednesday (15th).

Michael (13 April 2009)

Saturday washed out

Persistent drizzle put paid to the UCCE's chances of starting its first-class match against Yorkshire today. Tomorrow's forecast is a bit better, so we look forward to seeing Test cricketers Matthew Hoggard, Anthony McGrath, and Jacques Rudolph in action at Fenner's.

Michael (11 April 2009)

Blues versus Camden: OFF

Saturday's scheduled match between CUCC and Camden CC has been cancelled: the local club has failed to raise an XI.

Michael (10 April 2009)

UCCE warm-up matches summary

The UCCE’s first-class season begins tomorrow against Yorkshire (11:00 start), but the squad already has four matches under its belt, following fine weather throughout the week. On Monday, Essex’s 2nd XI came to Fenner’s and left victorious by 33 runs. In the field, ARU’s Rob Woolley impressed, taking 3 for 45, including the wicket of Test batsman Grant Flower, and the UCCE bowlers did well to restrict Essex to 275, given that the visitors lost only five wickets. In a somewhat bizarre reply, though, the fall of early wickets seemed to preclude any serious pursuit of that total, and only Eddie Ballard’s fine, near-run-a-ball century gave the appearance of a close-run thing. On Tuesday, the UCCE recorded its only win of the week, defeating a Suffolk XI by 60 runs in a timed match at Pembroke. On a green but decent pitch, Nick Lee’s excellent 108 was the rock upon which a total of 239 was built, with useful contributions coming from Fergus Baker (30) and Jivan Lotay (26). Suffolk, at 146 for 3 and needing fewer than six an over, were well in with a shout of chasing that down, but Cambridge spinners Baker and Michael Taylor bowled well in tandem to take seven wickets for 33 runs, securing victory with five overs to spare. Northants 2nd XI were the visitors to Fenner’s on Wednesday, and – in all honesty – the UCCE received a sound thrashing. Batting first, Northants racked up 317 for 5, with as many as 110 coming in the last eight overs. On the plus side, CUCC’s depth in spin bowling was again apparent, this time Akbar Ansari (2-22) and Frankie Brown (eight overs for 38) escaping the carnage. Reduced to 110 for 8, with only Ananya Sen (35) really getting in, the chase was never on. At least a ninth-wicket partnership of 107 – albeit in benign and relaxed conditions – between Stephen Gray and Nick Lee added some kind of respectability to the scorecard. Report on Thursday's match against Cambridgeshire to follow.

Michael (10 April 2009)

Fixture lists updated

New fixtures have been added for the coming season: the MCCU now plays two more pre-season friendlies against Suffolk and Cambridgeshire; the Blues play Camden CC and are likely to entertain Irish Universities in June, while the Crusaders now have a match against the Free Foresters pencilled in for late June.

Michael (05 April 2009)

CUCC fixtures for 2009

Full fixture schedules for Cambridge MCCU, the Blues, and the Crusaders, may now be found under the 'Fixtures' heading of the website.

Michael (10 March 2009)

Senior Treasurer's Report for 2009

We are delighted to publish CUCC Senior Treasurer Ken Siddle's annual report, the text of which follows: 'This year's Annual General Meeting will mark the end of an era. Professor David Buckingham has indicated that he does not wish to stand for re-election as President of the Club, an office he has held with great enthusiasm and commitment for 19 years. He is also of course a very distinguished academic, elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1975, and awarded the CBE for services to science in 1997. David's connection with CUCC began in 1955 when, as a postgraduate student at Corpus, he played for the University (having previously represented the University of Sydney in his native Australia). In a squad captained by Dennis Silk and including Michael Melluish, Bob Barber, Colin Stansfield-Smith and Gammy Goonesena (who topped both the batting and bowling averages) David did not win a Blue, but he played four first class matches and totaled 155 runs with a highest score of 52*. The Cricinfo player archive records that David's first class career in fact ran from 1955-1960, and that in 10 matches he scored 349 runs at an average of 18.4, and bowled 9 overs (off-breaks, we think) without taking any wickets. However, not all those games were for CUCC. After just one season at Fenner's he moved to Oxford, where he became a Fellow of Christ Church, and he was Senior Treasurer of OUCC from 1958-1964. He played occasional first class matches for the Free Foresters, delighting especially in returning to Fenner's in 1957 to play against his old university in a Foresters side captained by F.G. Mann. On that occasion David enjoyed a century opening partnership with Ian Craig, former captain of Australia, and made his highest first class score of 61, no mean feat considering the Cambridge attack included his former team-mates Colin Stansfield-Smith and Gammy Goonesena, now supplemented by Ossie Wheatley and Ted Dexter! Foresters went on to win an exciting game by 15 runs. Overall however 1957 was a good year for Cambridge cricket. Two weeks after losing to the Foresters the Blues beat Lancashire by an innings at Liverpool, a famous match in which G.W. Cook and C.S. Smith enjoyed a University record 9th wicket stand of 200. Later on their tour the Blues had another innings win over Gloucestershire, and at Lord's they beat Oxford by an innings and 186 runs, Goonesena setting another University record with a score of 211. Great days!! By 1969, after a short spell at Bristol University, David was back in Cambridge, this time to stay, as Professor of Chemistry and Fellow of Pembroke College. Jack Davies was quick to get him onto the CUCC committee, and he succeeded Jack as Senior Treasurer in 1977, becoming (we believe) the only person to hold that office for both CUCC and OUCC. In 1990, he succeeded John Butterfield as President of CUCC. His term of office has seen major changes in Cambridge cricket, largely in response to external pressures and certainly beyond the Club's control, reflecting both the development of the professional game and the declining profile of all university sport. However, David has guided the Club through these rough waters with wisdom and good humour, and has overseen many developments that have helped maintain Cambridge's place at the forefront of University cricket as it is played today. We have a thriving University Centre of Cricketing Excellence, a superb indoor school, we still play first class cricket at Fenner's, and our annual encounters with Oxford remain the highlights of our season. Indeed we now have three such encounters, the one-day Varsity Match at Lord's and both 4-day and 20/20 matches at Fenner's or The Parks. In keeping with Club tradition, David has nominated his own successor, but breaking with tradition he has looked to the ranks of old Blues rather than academic colleagues in making that nomination. We are delighted that Roger Knight has accepted David's invitation to stand as his successor, and expect that he will be formally elected at the AGM. Roger has been a good friend to CUCC for many years. In 1998 he captained the MCC against the University in a game celebrating the 150th anniversary of the very first match Fenner's, and in 2004 he officially opened our indoor cricket school. Roger won four Blues while a student at St Catharine's (1967-1970) and subsequently played first class cricket with Surrey, Gloucestershire, Sussex and then Surrey again (where he was captain for seven years). His movements around the county circuit had nothing to do with the transfer markets of today's game, but reflected his parallel career as a schoolmaster. He retired from first class cricket in 1989, having played 367 first class and 310 one-day games. A left-hand bat and right-arm medium bowler, in all cricket he scored 26,473 runs (including 35 centuries), took 666 wickets and held 379 catches. In 1983 he featured in a particularly memorable match of fluctuating fortunes when, as captain of Surrey, he saw his side bowled out for just 14 by Essex at Chelmsford, then scored a hundred in the second innings to help Surrey save the game. When he retired from first class cricket in 1989 he became headmaster of Worksop College. However, cricket was still in his blood, and in 1994 he gave up teaching to become Secretary (and later Chief Executive) of MCC, holding that key post until 2006. During 13 years at Lord's he is credited with transforming facilities, launching MCC's Spirit of Cricket initiative and overseeing the admission of women members (and of course inaugurating the women's Varsity Match on the practice ground!). We trust that Roger will be confirmed as the next President of CUCC at our AGM, and it is intended that David Buckingham will formally hand over the reins of office at the Varsity Match at Lord's on 4th July – an important date for your diaries. Other dates for those diaries are June 10th, when the excitement and razmataz of 20/20 cricket comes to Fenner's as we take on Oxford in the most frenetic form of the game. We are grateful to Charles Russell for their sponsorship of this match and its trophy (which Cambridge currently hold following a narrow victory in last year's inaugural match). Oxford will be back at Fenner's for what is likely to be a more sedate but no less keenly contested 4 day Varsity Match (still a first class fixture) from July 7th -10th. Other first class cricket at Fenner's in 2009 will see visits from Northants (April 11th-13th), Yorkshire (April 15-17) and Essex (June 11-13) to play the Cambridge MCC UCCE. Regular readers of the Club's Notes for Members will be aware that club finances are an ongoing preoccupation. This year it might be best to draw a veil over the deficit of approx £16,000 for the 2008 season. Unfortunately although we have kept expenditure under control, income has fallen away very badly over the last couple of years. We again failed to secure a major club sponsor last year, and the fixture against the Lashings all-star international XI was not the money-spinner it had been in 2007 (although Cambridge did record a memorable victory). Without a substantial and reliable source of additional income the club faces real difficulty very soon. Needless to say the committee is urgently addressing this critical financial situation, with strong support from Quidnuncs, and there is optimism that new sponsorship will be forthcoming in 2009. But I should end on a happier note. With a hint of spring in the air as I am writing these notes, it is easy enough for thoughts to turn to the coming season. Captain of CUCC in 2009 will be Akbar Ansari, who had an outstanding summer with the bat in 2008. As one of only three Blues still in residence, Akbar will be looking to a strong intake of freshers to take up the challenge, and will be heartened to have West Indian fast bowler Ruel Braithwaite to spearhead the opening attack. We wish the team all the very best, and hope to see many members at Fenner's to support them.' Prof Ken Siddle, CUCC Senior Treasurer

Michael (09 March 2009)

Charles Russell Twenty20 Day confirmed

The CUCC committee has confirmed that Wednesday 10 June will see Fenner's host a Twenty20 Day, kindly sponsored by the Charles Russell law firm. The event will consist of two Twenty20 matches, the first being the final of the inter-collegiate Cuppers competition, the second the Blues' Varsity Twenty20 Match against Oxford University. This will be the first time in living memory that any cricketing Varsity match has been played in Cambridge during term time, and will provide a fantastic opportunity for the wider university to watch a very high standard of Blues cricket. Tickets, which will be very reasonably priced, will soon be available to buy from all members of CUCC, and at the gates on the day.

Michael (23 February 2009)

2009 first-class fixtures announced

The ECB has released the first-class fixture schedule for the forthcoming season, with Cambridge MCCU down to play Yorkshire, Sussex, and Essex at Fenner's, as follows: April 11-13, Yorkshire April 15-17, Sussex June 11-13, Essex MCCU captain for the 2009 season is Trinity Hall's Akbar Ansari.

Michael (27 December 2008)

Ex-Blues on the county circuit

The past week has seen one former Blue leave the professional arena, only to be swiftly replaced by another... Former Kent and Middlesex captain Ed Smith announced his retirement from the first-class game on 25th November, having sustained a serious ankle injury during the 2008 season. Smith, who was capped for England on three occasions during the 2003 series against South Africa, scored almost 13,000 first class runs at an average of 41.8. Offered a contract with Lancashire this week, however, was Adrian Shankar, Blues captain in 2003 and 2004. CUCC sends its warmest congratulations to Adrian, who scored 252 runs throughout his Varsity career, at an average of 22.9.

Michael (26 November 2008)

Blues Squad announced for 2008-09

The following have been selected for the Blues' winter training squad: Akbar Ansari (capt) Scott MacLennan (vc) Fergus Baker Frankie Brown Ed Pearson Phil Ashton Michael Taylor Richard Hollamby George Reynolds Chris Grammer Mark Rosenberg Ruel Brathwaite Anand Ashok Rupert Wingate-Saul Tom Marsh Matt Cook Ananya Sen Thomas Probert Tom Scrase James Greenwood There will be a further 'development' squad of around a dozen cricketers who will train separately over the winter, but who will likely be involved with the Crusaders come the summer: they have been contacted separately. If you have not been contacted with reference to either the Blues or the Development squad, but you would still like to be involved in university cricket this season, please contact Michael Taylor (mht25). A system for keeping track of potential squad members' performances in college matches will be established in advance of the 2009 season. Thanks are offered to all those who trialled this year.

Michael (11 November 2008)

Have you been contacted about Freshers' trials?

Would all trialists who signed up at the Freshers' Fair, but who have not yet been contacted about nets, please contact Chris Scott at cws24@cam.ac.uk to re-book their place. A number of e-mail addresses submitted at the Freshers' Fair were illegible and so we have been unable to contact those trialists. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Michael (29 October 2008)

Time running out to book your place at trials!

For those interested in trying out for this year's 1st and 2nd XI squads, please contact Chris Scott (cws24@cam.ac.uk) as soon as possible to book your place at the forthcoming trials. The trials are open to all years, and will run from 11.00 to 1.00 on the first two Saturdays and Sundays of November. Trialists are advised to bring their own kit: CUCC will not be providing any.

Michael (15 October 2008)

Freshers Trials 2008-09

Trials for the Blues and Crusaders (2nd XI) squads for the forthcoming season will be held at the Fenner's Indoor School, on Gresham Road, on the 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th of November. The trials shall run from 11am to 1pm on all four days. For those who missed sign-up at the Freshers' Fair, please contact Chris Scott as soon as possible at cws24@cam.ac.uk to book your place.

Michael (09 October 2008)

Varsity Draw despite thrilling finish

Depsite long periods of slow and unadventurous play by both teams, The University Parks played host to the most exciting Varsity Match for a long time. After setting a target of 368 in 5 and half hours, Oxford would surely do well to get close, particularly after their poor showing in the first inninings, and the increasing inconsistency in bounce in the wicket that was also providing plenty of assistance. After keeping wickets in hand for the last hour, essentially turning the game into a Twenty/20 finish, Oxford took runs at a comfortable rate, whilst Cambridge’s fielding went to shreds in the face of the possibility of losing a game they though only they could win. If Neil Kruger hadn’t been dismissed for 172, Oxford surely would have won, a fine catch by Robin Kemp off the bowling of Ansari essentially ended any hope of Oxford getting home. That Cambridge were in this position can be largely put down to the efforts of Akbar Ansari, posting his first of what will hopefully be many first class hundreds, making 193. Along with Nick Whittington (80) he helped post a record Cambridge 6th wicket partnership in Varsity Matches of 216, and in doing so, ensured Cambridge could take the spoils in the first innings, despite being a miserable 85-5. Ed Morse provided the incisive quality for the home side, eventually finishing with figures of 6-102 off 30 overs. Cambridge then bowled marvellously to dismiss Oxford for 259 especially after being 168-2. Hemingway and Ansari proved the main threats, Ansari claiming 4 wickets in addition to his hundred. It was the seamers however that provided the impetus, Jacklin first removing Kruger with an excellent Yorker, and O’Driscoll claiming the wicket of the entrenched Sadler to start the rot. Wickets then fell regularly to the spinners, Hemingway’s delivery to dismiss Spencer Crawley showing the potential difficulties to come for the side batting last, the batsman only able fend off an absolute brute that turned and bounced from a crack. More runs from Ansari, (80*) plus contributions from all of the top order barring keeper Heywood, gave Cambridge the lead and plenty of time to dismiss Oxford again. Hemigway bowled terrifically with absolutely no luck, several thick edges off both halves of the bat fell out of the reaches of the close-in fielders. Kruger however should take credit for a very good innings indeed, Cambridge will need to ensure he is dismissed early in future fixtures to ensure this year’s good run can be continued. The game also marked the end of the CUCC playing careers of 8 of the players, Heywood, Jacklin and Kemp amassing 14 Blues between them, Heywood having the record for Cambridge cricket Blues with 6, and equalling the record for both Universities. The year was a thoroughly enjoyable one, aided by success against Oxford for the first time in a number of years. Tom Hemingway will captain the side, provided reports from tutors of the guarantee of his return to read an MPhil materialise, and with Akbar Ansari, Scott MacLennan and Fergus Baker returning, Cambridge will look to go one game further than this year’s crop.

James (13 July 2008)

Foresters bat Freely against Blues.

The FF provided a stronger test than has been the case in recent years, winning comfortably by 4 wickets. Garri Jones lead from the front for the historic club, eventually caught behind off Hemingway for 77, third time lucky for keeper Heywood after foregoing two previous half chances off the unfortunate O’Driscoll and Hemingway. Further contributions by the Foresters middle order, including the return former Captain Adrian Shankar, his second visit in a week after he captained LCCC to victory, took the Forester to an easy victory. The problem again was the bowling, Jacklin sending down some absolute filth with the new ball, his eventual 14 overs going for 87. In a league season, he would normally be looking to have conceded such a figure only by August, but a series of floated half volleys and long hops put paid to the notion of tight new ball spell. Only Robin Kemp of the veteran class could claim to have had a reasonable last day for CUCC at Fenners with a good but unfortunate 5 overs. It was a highly successful day however for Akbar Ansari, notching his second Blues century of the year, as well as picking up 2 wickets at the end. He will be looking to bowl a little more in the Varsity Match, particularly in the middle order, his leg spin being a potential threat on a wearing wicket. He, along with runs from Timms (48) and MacLennan (62*) took the total up to 263-3. The FF made the total with plenty of balls to spare, captain Owen perhaps will rue not introducing Ansari to the attack earlier. A string of poor performances with the ball will concern the Light Blues with 2 days to go before the big game, though surely the convincing nature of the two previous victories in June will make Cambridge the favourites.

James (13 July 2008)

Antother 3 day loss for the Light Blues

The Blues continued their unfortunate plight in the longer form of the game as London County Cricket Club chased 467 in the last day to win by 3 wickets. At 309-7, a win for Neil Burns’ side, by this stage of the game at full strength with 14 men, looked as unlikely as it did at the beginning of the day. A superb 8th wicket partnership of 159 by Cornishman Chadwick (127*) and Umar Ghuzali (65*) made the unlikely a reality, as the Cambridge bowlers bowled poorly, and fielded at a level several tiers below. The game was set up beautifully by the batsmen, notably Timms (119) and O’Driscoll (107*) in the first innings, the latter continuing his wonderfully good form with the bat, particularly in the persistent leaving of the slog sweep in the changing room. The bowlers followed up with good work of their own, LCCC dismissed for 168, Hemingway and Jacklin forming the main axis of threat with 6 wicket for 69 off 35 overs between them, sharing 3 apiece. The Knebworth Park Butcher claimed the wicket of Nick Compton, the Middlesex batsman arriving on the second day for a bat, only to be caught plum in front for 0. O’Driscoll came on from the trading floor to claim 1 of his own, purchasing the penultimate wicket, one that provided some unusual resistance. More runs from Cmabridge came in quick time, this time captain Owen proving the main bulk (86) plus contributions from the promoted lower order before declaring overnight. Chasing 467 for victory, Compton made up for the first innings disappointment with a high octane 132, with 100 before lunch. He survived a handful of chances, including two skied catches, a trend that was to continue into the afternoon, the Blues creating somewhere in the region of 14 full chances, and a couple more half chances. Such chances will need to be taken next week if the Light Blues are to complete the ‘treble’ over Oxford this year.

James (13 July 2008)

Blues lose against MCC

In sharp contrast to the thrills of Tuesday, the three day fixture against the MCC proved somewhat of a non-event. Eventually losing by 5 wickets, and preceeded by the usual series of contrived declarations and grenade like bowling, Cambridge's mind were clearly elsewhere as the MCC strolled home by 5 wicket with one and a half hours to spare on the final day. After captain Owen won an important toss, and elected to bat, and thus taking the first step in ensuring that no fielding was required from the home side on day one, wickets fell regularly, and too frequently for everyone's liking. Liam O'Driscoll however batted in a matter totally alien to him, as he finished the first day on 76 of 202 balls. Cambridge finished the day on 234-7, after the MCC rushed in 100 overs in 5 hours - a truly riveting day's cricket. Day two saw the Knebworth Park Butcher set to work, carving, slicing and cleaving his way to an unbeaten 70-odd, allowing Cambridge to declare on 285-9. Cambridge started brightly, if not bizzarely with the ball, opener Jogia being genuinely snaffled down the legside after the first ball of the innings. A handled ball dismissal followed, and after Jacklin had gathered in his various playthings to pick up Worcesterhire contracted Knappett cheaply, Cambridge had the MCC 3 down for not many. A 4th wicket partnership took the MCC score up to just around 100 behind and a generous declaration by MCC skipper Min Patel followed. Timms and Owen batted superbly for a 100 run opening partnership before a Cambridge top order collapse like no other ensued - 5 wickets falling for no more than 15 runs, inclusing some injudicious strokeplay and suspect running. After traditional dressing room panic over declarations, the MCC were set 322 in five and a half hours on the final day. With poor fielding and suspicious umpiring, not to mention some less than tight bowling thrown in, the MCC made the total with ease, with coach Scott to return to the ground to find an empty pavillion and nobody at home.

James (22 June 2008)

Blues win Lord's Varsity

The Blues won the one day Varsity Match last Tuesday, only the second time of doing so since the game was moved to MCC hq. The fixture was again a thrilling one, though in contrast to the last 4 years, runs were much easier to come by as the sun shone and the wicket was flat. Were is not for a very unflattering spell of spin bowling by the Cambridge bowlers in the middle of the Oxford innings, the match could have been considerably less intersting, Oxford having to chase over 8 an over for long periods. The initial pressure was set up by new ball bowlers Jacklin (1-15) and James (1-37), both of whom bowled very tight and disciplined lines and lengths, a sharp contrast to their Oxford couterparts, who once again let themselves down in a similar fashion to that of the Twenty20 match two weeks prior, this time giving away 42 wides. Neil Kruger batted extremely well for his 81, and was ably supported by other members of the middle order, especially debutant keeper Haslam (43). Cambridge were lucky though to keep picking up wickets at crucial times, and in the end The Light Blues won comfortably, bowling Oxford out with 3.2 overs to spare and 47 runs short of Cambridge's 286-8. That Oxford were under such pressure so early was due to a very solid batting display from Cambridge, not least by the two openers Timms (55) and new man Ansari (73). Cambridge were able to keep wickets in hand for the last 10 overs, not least because of the contribution of extras, and whilst wickets fell a little too frequently, 286-8 was always going to be tough to achieve chasing under pressure. Cambridge now most certainly have the upper hand going into the 4 day match in July, with two wins in two against the Dark Blues.

James (22 June 2008)

Blues win Varsity

The blues beat Oxford by 47 runs at Lord's today to win the one day varsity match. More Soon.

Lynden (17 June 2008)

Blues win against Quidnuncs

The Blues followed up their success against the all star Lashings by beating the Quidnuncs convincingly at Fenners. After Andy Danson put the home side under pressure with 2 wickets in his first over, Cambridge were forced to consolidate with the score on 36-3. Consolidate they did, and 30 overs and 152 runs later, Heywood departed for 72 leaving MacLennan at the crease. With wickets in hand and some middle/lower order impetus the score finished on 260-7, MacLennan dissmissed for 91. The Quidnuncs started soundly, last year's captains Ian Massey getting them off to a flier, with Glen Ward taking stock at the other end. A succession of wickets fell, initially to Fergus Baker, returning after injury to the inter gluteal region, and latterly Akbar Ansari, both bowlers picking up 3 wickets. Ward eventually fell for 49, and the game began to fizzle out as the run rate escalated beyond manageable proportions. A sound performance for the side going into Tuesday's Varsity Match at Lord's.

James (15 June 2008)

History made as World XI defeated

History was made yesterday at Fenner's as Cambridge University beat the Lashings World XI by 1 wicket, and did so in Cambridge Blue and black attire, the first time of doing at the University's home. A terrific all round display in the field, led by the bowling of Hemingway (3-19) and Timms (2-4) with Matt Cook claiming three steepling catches restricted the Lashings XI, again containing their ususal array of proven international players, past and present, to a very manageable 187. With Tino Best raoaring in, the Blues got off to a slow start, and with newly promoted Heywood being pinned for 50% of the balls he faced from the Barbados fast bowler not helping, 187 was always going to be a challenging total. With the sacrificial lambs out of the way, Timms, once again in excellent form, and Owen took the score along at a good rate. With Harris and Emburey bowling in tandem, wickets started falling regularly and the run rate climbed. Timms finally departed for 50, and with 40 needed off three overs and one wicket left, it once again appeared that Lashings would leave Cambridge with a victory. Tom Hemingway and Ben Jacklin however had other intentions, and with some brutal hitting from Hemingway (4 sixes & 2 fours) including two convincing pulls shots from the returning Best, and excellent strike rotation from Jacklin, Cambridge won by 1 wicket with 2 balls to spare. Hemingway won the man of the match with a terrific all round display, and who knows, perhaps the aptly nicknamed 'Knebworth Park Butcher' might also find himself on the list of lower order players whose name begins with an 'H' getting the nod to bat up the order.

James (13 June 2008)

Blues lose as MCCC chase down 304

Despite posting an eminently defendable 304, the Blues lost to the Midland Cricket Club Conference by 6 wickets at Fenner's. Richard Timms provided the home side's foundation with a magnificently crafted 119, batting for all but the last 5 overs. With useful contributions from those around him, particularly Nick Whittington, and some strong hitting in the last 10 overs, Cambridge built what should have been a winning total. A combination of loose bowling and an equally sparkling innings from the MCCC opener resulted in a narrow defeat with two balls to spare, MCCC scoring at 11 and over for the last 7.

James (13 June 2008)

Blues win inaugural 20/20 Varsity Match

The Blues won their first Varsity Match since 2005 as they triumphed, eventually rather comfortably with one and a half overs to spare. Oxford won the toss and elected to bowl, no doubt hoping to put early pressure on the visitors with the new, swinging pink ball. Indeed, with Cambridge at 72 5 off 7 overs, including three run outs, the decision by Oli Sadler looked a good one. Sadly for Oxford, a total of 50 extras took the pressure off the visitors, as they worked towards a competitive total of 155, with useful lower runs from Heywood (26) and Hemingway (20). In response and in front of an ever building crowd, Cambridge bowled a much tighter line, but any runs that had hithertoo come from the overtly exercised umpire upper bodies came from boundaries scored by Brendan McKerchar, Oxford moving along nicely at over 10 and over. The game changed suddenly after a Hemingway double wicket maiden, and with able support by fellow spinner Fergus Baker, the Dark Blues started struggling against the lack of pace. Oxford lost wickets regularly, including crucially McKerchar, run out for 50. Therafter, more successful overs of leg spin from Akbar Ansari meant that Oxford were always behind the rate. The Light Blues will of course be looking to build on this success in 10 days time at Lords, were the two adversaries meet in the 50 over match. In the meantime, Cambridge will play host to Midlands CCC and Lashings this coming Wednesday and Thursday.

James (07 June 2008)

Inaugural 20/20 Varsity Match Today

The Blues will take the field in this the first recorded 20 over Varsity Match. The match at The University Parks in Oxford will hope to ride on the back the recent surge in popularity of the shortened format of the game and a large crowd is expected. Coloured kit will also be provided for the players, and pink cricket balls will be used - all the better for you to see us.

James (06 June 2008)

Scorecards Updated

A link between the scoring software used by CUCC scorer Ray Markham and the website database has now been established easing the transition of data onto the website. All the blues matches and their scorecards for the last two years are now up to date. The MCCU matches are also being transferred and scorecards are currently available for this years games to date. This will be back dated for last year soon. The result of this is that the statistics sections of the site are much enriched with data.

Lynden (22 May 2008)

Blues draw in Arundel

The Blues continued on with their good performance against Teddington with a strong showing against the Duke of Norfolk's XI. A large third wicket partnership between Scott MacLennan (90) & Richard Timms (146*) set up a terrific total of 297-4. With The Duke's XI teetering on 157-7, set up by yet another impressive new ball display by James & Kemp, followed by robust spells by Baker & Ansari, a win was for the taking. Three missed chances allowed the 8th wicket to put on over 100 to get the Duke's XI up to within 40 of the total, but a win for the Sussex based side was always the unlikely result.

James (16 May 2008)

Blues vs Cambridgeshire - Cancelled

After heavy and persistent showers during the first half of the week, Fenners does a good impression of New Road, Worcester. The next Blues game is against the Duke of Norfolk's XI on May 15th, at the Castle Ground in Arundel, Sussex. The next home fixture is against Durham Academy on 22nd & 23rd May. In the interim, the UCCE play Durham UCCE and Warwickshire.

James (01 May 2008)

Blues vs Teddington

A reversal of fortunes was the order of the day at Fenners last Saturday, with the Blues beating Middlesex Premier League side Teddington by 6 wickets in revenge for the convincing win dished out by the London side last year. Scott Maclennan hit the winning runs on his way to 22 not, third top score behind Timms (23) and extras (26). Ill discipline was certainly not a feature of the Blues bowling, Robin Kemp and Ben Jacklin ending with 4 wickets apiece, though Jacklin will be concerned that his 9 overs went for over 40 runs. The Blues catching was impeccable, in total contrast to the Teddington batting which showed plenty of signs of early season syndrome. All out for 109 in 31 overs, Teddington gave most of their wickets away, though they were put under plenty of pressure by tight bowling from all the bowlers, despite some loosening of the usually tight belt of Jacklin. An excellent riposte to the previous weeks' defeat, and now an excellent platform to take into this week against Cambridgeshire.

James (28 April 2008)

Blues vs Teddington

The Blues recorded a convincing win vs Teddington CC today at Fenner's winning by 6 wickets after bowling the visitors out for 109. Photos are available in the photos section of the site.

Lynden (26 April 2008)

Blues vs Hampstead

The first outing for the Blues saw a loss by 6 wickets to Middlesex Premier League side Hampstead. Conditions remained cold and damp throughout the day, but whilst it seemed like a good toss to win batting first, Cambridge probably had the worst of the conditions, the bowlers having to contend with a bar of soap and a wet tiled floor by the end of the day, not to mention the near pitch darkness. Debutants Whittington and Marsh acquitted themselves splendidly at the top of the innings, putting on over a hundred for the first wicket. A mini-collapse after luch saw their good work spoiled a little, as Cambridge reached 210 for 6 with ten overs left. A hard-hitting 33 not out from Michael James saw the visitors to 270 in their maximum 64 overs - a very good display for the first outing. Kemp and James opened the bowling and clamied three early wickets, Michael James producing a real ripper to remove the newly contracted Middlesex batsman Levy. A turned down stumping appeal off Hollamby to dismiss Paul Weekes was perhaps a crucial moment in the match - the former Middlesex captain going on to win the game for his side with overs to spare, scoring a very well constructed 101 not out. The Blues bowlers persisted manfully in the difficult circumstances, Michael Taylor especially with his legspin, though concern will be felt for Michael James, shot down by a sniper in the pavilion, his hamstring injury will hopefully heal quickly. An encouraging start for the University on many fronts - they will be looking to improve on this against more Middlsex opposition this Saturday at home to Teddington.

James (21 April 2008)

2008 Fixtures

The 2008 fixtures have now been finalised and are on the fixtures page.

Lynden (18 March 2008)

Members Area - Password Update

We have added a new feature to the members area which allows users to change their passwords from the random one assigned. This should mean it is easier to login.

Lynden (28 January 2008)

Freshers' Trials Dates

Freshers' Trials will be on 3rd, 10th and 17th of November between 11 and 1pm. They will be held at the indoor cricket school at Fenners'. All interested in trialling this year should contact this years captain Fred Owen (fgo20@cam) or Chris Scott, Coach (cws24@cam). Those who sign up will be receiving an email with further information closer to the dates.

Lynden (09 October 2007)

Freshers Trials

The dates for Freshers trials will be posted on the website as soon as they are available. In the meantime any players interested in trialling should contact this years captain Fred Owen (fgo20@cam) with a brief cricketing history. Follow the link below for further information

Lynden (08 October 2007)

Blues victorious at Arundel

The clouds and steady rain on the two hour journey down to Arundel the night before the fixture against the Duke of Norfolk’s XI seemed ominous. However, the Sussex Coast seemed to be the one place in Britain not affected by the week’s torrential rain, and the Blues matched the occasion with glimpses of the positive cricket of which they are capable. The Duke’s XI lunched at 160 for 2, thanks to some indiscipline all round and some steady hitting. Reinvigorated by the famous lunches, the Blues came out fighting. An outstanding session in all departments saw the home side restricted to a further 70 runs for the loss of eight wickets. Robin Kemp and Fergus Baker set the tone with some tight bowling, which earned them three and five wickets respectively, and this was matched by sharp and confident fielding: 243 all out was an eminently gettable total. The loss of four early wickets to some ill-advised shots against the opening bowlers placed the Blues in trouble. Matt Austin and Liam O’Driscoll weathered the storm, however, and with six wickets in hand at tea the game was in the balance. What followed was one of the most impressive partnerships by a Cambridge pair for some time. The early setbacks were soon forgotten as Matt and Liam started to dominate, both reaching well-earned fifties within a few balls of each other. Liam O’Driscoll completed a superb century at more than a run-a-ball, and was happy to watch from the non-striker’s end as wicket-keeper, James Heywood, swinging from the hoop, sent the second last delivery over the infield on the cheap side to seal a very satisfying win for the Blues.

Ian (19 May 2007)

Blues beat Hornsey

After opposition delay reduced the game to a 40 over contest, Cambridge began slowly on a slow and used wicket. With wickets falling at regular intervals, the scoring rate was hampered. Wickets were kept in hand however for the last 8 overs, and the score was moved up to 200 with some expensive figures in the last 4 overs. In reply, Hornsey never really got going after an encouranging start, and limped to 100-7 after 27 overs. With the run rate required topping 10 an over for the last 8 overs, Hornsey did very well to battle back, aided by some complacent University bowling. In the end, 13 were required off the last over. Sadly for them, they were unable to capitalise as they had done earlier, and fell two short. A welcome win for the Blues after a hammering by the County, and a disappointing top order batting display against Hampstead.

James (30 April 2007)

MCCU vs Derbyshire CCC

The second first class match of the season will take place starton on Wednesday 25th April and continue till Friday 27th. Play starts at 11.00am. Entry will be £1 per person and a car parking will be available at £5 per car.

Lynden (24 April 2007)

CUCC on the radio

Chris Scott, Ian Massey and James Heywood did their bit for the club winning the BBC Radio Cambridgeshire Monday sport show quiz against Histon FC. You can listen again at www.bbc.co.uk/radio/aod/networks/cam/aod.shtml?cam/monday_sport#

Lynden (24 April 2007)

Town vs Gown season opener

Cambridge University play their first game at Fenners against Cambridgeshire on Thursday 19th April. 11:00 start

James (18 April 2007)

Pre Season Schedule

Tuesday 17th- Outdoor Net session and Fielding at Fenners- 3-5pm Wednesday 18th- Outdoor Net session and Fielding at Pembroke- 1-4pm

James (17 April 2007)

MCCU vs Northants

The opening first class game of the season sees Cambridge MCCU take on Northants at Fenner's starting this Saturday 14th April at 11am. Tickets are available on the gate and are priced at £1 per ticket. Limited parking is also available at £5 per car. Entry is free for CUCC members.

Lynden (12 April 2007)

Trials for CUCC

Trial sessions for CUCC have now finished. However, if you missed the boat for any reason, and you would like to play university cricket in the summer, please contact Ian Massey (irm31@cam.ac.uk) or Ravi Tiwari (rdt26@cam.ac.uk). Please give a brief history of your playing career, and we will try and arrange something.

Ian (21 February 2007)

Varsity Photos

Varsity Photos from Lord's are now in the photos section.

Lynden (23 October 2006)

Freshers' Nets

This years CUCC Freshers' nets will be be starting on 21st October 12-2pm and will run for 4 weeks. All those interested in playing University Cricket, or for further information, should contact Ian Massey (irm31@cam.ac.uk ) to arrange a place giving brief details of your playing history.

Lynden (28 September 2006)

UCCE Trials

Do you have the ambition to play County Cricket? If so contact Chris Scott, the University Centre of Cricketing Excellence Coach cws24@cam.ac.uk to arrange a place at the UCCE trials on 11th and 18th October(Wednesdays) 3-5pm.

Lynden (28 September 2006)

Varsity 2006

This years Blues Varsity Matches begin this Saturday with the one day match at Lord's Cricket Ground. The match starts at 11.00am with the gates opening an hour earlier. The MCC have kindly extended the free entry policy (www.lords.org) for another year. Come along and cheer the Blues on to retain the one day Varsity trophy. The four day match will take place at The Parks starting on Monday 3rd July.

Lynden (30 June 2006)

Lashings Match

A large crowd was in attendance to see CUCC take on the stars of Lashings. The Lashings' biggest star, Sachin Tnedulkar, did not disappoint with a magnificent 155 and aided by Chris Cairns's 113 in 57 balls took the visitors to 343 off their 40 overs. The CUCC reply was steady but was always going to struggle to keep up with the required rate against the bowling line up of Courtney Walsh, Chris Lewis, Nante Hayward, Vasbert Drakes and Agit Agarkar. Fred Owen high scored with 81 sharing a 100 partnership with Matt Austin scoring a fifty. The event received widespread coverage with reports on radio, television, newspapers and the internet. Read CUCC's Ben Jacklin on the BBC Sports website news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/5105398.stm

Lynden (24 June 2006)

Lashings Match

This Wednesday (21st June) sees CUCC take on Lashings. The star studded Lashings line up will include Sachin Tendulkar in his first game for Lashings. The Lashings Team will also be made up of: Kallicharran, Richardson, Taibu, Cairns, Lewis, Defreitas, Blewett, Drakes, Hayward, Latif and Simmonds

Lynden (18 June 2006)

CUCC vs Lashings Match

This years game vs Lashings has been moved to Wednesday 21st June (originally 15th June). The start time remains 13.00.

Lynden (30 May 2006)

Blues Dominate Duke's XI

Thursday 9th May saw a rejuvenated blues squad put together one of the most convincing performances of the season so far. Following the disappointing performance in the annual 'town vs gown' fixture the blues squad were looking to improve enormously, using the lessons they had learnt from the game against Cambridgeshire to their advantage. The Blues lost the toss and were asked to bat by the Duke of Norfolk's XI on what can only be described as a perfect day for batting. However, the weather conditions did not seem to affect the CUCC bowlers who showed great control and guile resulting in just reward. Robin Kemp was the pick of the bowlers taking wickets at regular intervals. Specatators who may have seen the previous game would not have recognised the blues squad in the field with all players showing great commitment and in some cases tremendous athleticism. Tight bowling and superb fielding left the blues requiring 176 to win with approximately 45 overs to get them in. The 'timed' format of the game left the blues with a potentially tricky 50 minute period of batting before tea, which was ably dealt with by the openers Massey and Bartholomew who showed excellent composure. Following the break the batsmen pushed on and began scoring more quickly. The Duke's XI could not stem the flow of runs as Owen began to open his shoulders, hitting two convincing straight sixes. Ian Massey carried his bat scoring a very competent 70 not out thus guiding the blues to victory. The recent critics of the blues squad may well have changed their opinions following thursday's performance. Excellent attitudes and commitment throughout the players contributed to an assured victory.

Tom (13 May 2006)

Blues Victorious in Curtain Raiser

The 2006 blues squad began its official fixture program for the year with a comfortable victory over Middlesex Premier League side Hampstead CC. Hampstead were rolled over for 119 having won the toss and deciding to bat on what looked to be a very green wicket. All of the bowlers used the conditions to their advantage and were sufficiently rewarded for doing so. Ben Jacklin topping the wickets tally with three to his name. CUCC then continued its domination of the game by knocking off the small total with the loss of only one wicket. An excellent partnership between Ian Massey and James Chervak proved to be the undoing of the middlesex side. All in all a very professional performance from a very promising squad.

Tom (26 April 2006)

2006 Cuppers

Cuppers 2006 is currently being organised. All college captains please contact Ian Bartholomew (idb22 - was wrong before!) with the number of teams to be entered as soon as possible.

Lynden (19 April 2006)

New Website Live

As you will see the new website is up and running. It is not being promoted until the end of April when the site will 'officially' go live. Until then bear with us while we make some adjustments to the site as it goes live. Please use the forum section to let us have any comments and to discuss whatever you feel like.

Lynden (17 April 2006)

New Fixtures

The fixtures for the coming year have been finalised and have been inserted into the fixtures section of the site.

Lynden (22 February 2006)