England v Canterbury: Jubilee three-day match - 7th, 8th and 9th March 2002

On February the 28th 1877, 125 years ago, Canterbury played England in a match at Hagley Park that caused tremendous excitement. 15,000 spectators were present to see a Canterbury team of 18 men make a sensational attempt to defeat the famous Englishmen.

England made 70 in it's first innings. Canterbury 65. England in it's second innings made 103. Canterbury with victory in its sights were thwarted in their efforts by some magnificent bowling from Englishman Hill. Hill bowled his last eight overs taking five wickets for no runs. The Englishmen won a great battle and were victorious by 24 runs.

125 years later, Canterbury takes on England once again in CCA's Jubilee Match, to be played at Hagley Oval, this Thursday 7th, Friday 8th and Saturday 9th of March.

Canterbury this time will field eleven players, including four Black Caps - Chris Cairns, Nathan Astle, Chris Harris and Craig McMillan.

Event organiser, Andrew Hames, is hoping for a similar atmosphere but with a better result.

"The Jubilee match, having been moved from Jade Stadium, has given Canterbury Cricket the opportunity to recreate an event for the people of Canterbury (Canterbury Cricket includes six districts, Canterbury Country, Mid Canterbury, South Canterbury, West Coast and Buller as well as nine senior clubs, a Junior and Suburban Association). As well as the players we have important cogs that ensure the great game of cricket takes place in our province, including groundsmen, umpires and scorers. This match will give us the chance to have all our stakeholders involved and give the people of Canterbury an opportunity to come along to the Oval and help celebrate 125 years of Cricket in Canterbury," Hames said.

Mr Hames said the aim was to create a great atmosphere at the ground and ensure everybody from the media, English and Cantabrians of all ages were catered for.

The match is due to start at 12 noon each day with three two hour session (12-2pm, 2.40-4.40pm, 5-7pm).

"The hours of play will allow people the opportunity to come down to the Oval at lunch time and after work and also free up Saturday morning for those wishing to catch the excitement in the afternoon. We will have the Oval looking it's best and be providing entertainment in addition to just the cricket from bands, markets, vintage cars, children's entertainment, giveaway's, free coaching, and have-a-go sessions. There will be plenty going on for all," Mr Hames said.

© Canterbury Cricket Association