After two encouraging away performances to kick off the pre-season, Hoddesdon Cricket Club’s First XI will finally step out at their home this Saturday, as they welcome Enfield CC to Lowfield for their final warm-up match before the serious business begins.

This isn’t just another friendly. This weekend’s match lays a marker: the first Saturday cricket fixture at Lowfield since Hoddesdon Cricket Club took full stewardship of the ground following the departure of Hoddesdon Town FC for the summer. With the sun set to shine and a full day of cricket in prospect, anticipation around the club could hardly be higher.

Early Season Form – Building Momentum
Hoddesdon’s build-up to the 2025 season has shown plenty of positive signs already, with two away friendlies providing a valuable mixture of match sharpness, individual brilliance, and learning opportunities.

Two weeks ago, the First XI travelled to Redbourn and delivered a strong all-round performance. Last Saturday, they were tested harder at Broxbourne. Winning the toss and batting, Hoddesdon posted 205 for 8 in their 40 overs, thanks largely to a superb innings from Johnny Munday, who finished 80 not out in a classy knock that mixed patience with power.

Captain Rob Walters also chipped in with 36, while the bowlers showed grit and intelligence to defend the total. Will Steward’s safe hands and Munday’s all-round contribution (2 wickets) sealed a 25-run victory.

Both matches have revealed a side that’s gelling nicely, even with some early-season rust still being knocked off.

Key Players to Watch

Although the starting XI is yet to be announced, we can look forward to another fine performance from many of Walter's charges.

Johnny Munday – Fresh off his unbeaten 80 and two wickets at Broxbourne, Munday looks to be hitting form at just the right time. His calm presence in the middle order and knack for breaking partnerships with the ball make him crucial.

Rob Walters – The captain leads by example with bat and ball. His quickfire 36 at Broxbourne showed his intent to keep Hoddesdon playing positively, and his two wickets late on demonstrated smart tactical use of his bowling.

Will Steward – Steward’s alert demeanour made a real impact at Broxbourne and he can be relied on to snaffle any opportunities that come his way.

Martin Brown & Om Thakeria – Two players whose tidy bowling spells in pre-season have built pressure at key moments. Their ability to keep things tight could be pivotal against an Enfield side that likes to score freely.

The Opposition – Enfield CC
Enfield are no strangers to Hoddesdon, and Saturday’s visitors will pose a stern test. Traditionally strong in their top order and full of depth in their bowling, Enfield are also deep into their pre-season preparations and will likely arrive with a near full-strength squad. They’ll look to bat aggressively if given the chance and will test Hoddesdon’s fielding and bowling discipline fully. The match will be an excellent barometer of where both sides are as league campaigns loom.

For Hoddesdon, this is a final opportunity to fine-tune combinations, test field placements, and give as many players as possible valuable time in the middle.

Home Sweet Home – The Lowfield Era Begins
This match isn’t just important for cricketing reasons. It marks the beginning of a hugely exciting new chapter at Lowfield, with Hoddesdon Cricket Club now taking to the field. With the football club’s tenancy at Lowfield coming to an end, Saturday will see a buzzing atmosphere as the club community comes together to support the players. The club has worked hard during the winter to prepare Lowfield for a full summer of cricket. Early feedback from players and members about the facilities and surface has been overwhelmingly positive.

Weather Forecast – Perfect Cricketing Conditions
If the weathermen are to be believed, Saturday is shaping up beautifully. Sunny intervals and light breezes are forecast throughout the day, with temperatures expected to sit comfortably around 19-21°C — ideal for both players and spectators. Lowfield should be dry and true, rewarding good cricketing skills without favouring bat or ball unduly. A quick outfield could mean high-scoring cricket if batters get set.

Start Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Lowfield Ground, Hoddesdon
Entry: Free for all spectators

Bar Information:
The club bar will be open all day, serving a full range of refreshments. Even better, Lowfield365 members can use their membership card for discounts of up to 20% on drinks throughout the day — perfect for a cold beer or soft drink in the sun!

Memberships are still available for those who want to sign up and enjoy benefits all season long.

Ahead of this important fixture, Hoddesdon CC Chairman, Ian Munday, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome everyone back to Lowfield. Saturday marks the start of a new era for the club — one built around our fantastic cricketing tradition, but also about bringing our community together. We hope lots of members, friends, and local residents will join us for what should be a brilliant afternoon of cricket and celebration.”

The Road Ahead
After Saturday’s game, focus will shift fully onto the league season, with Hoddesdon aiming for a strong showing in what promises to be a highly competitive campaign. Early-season signs are encouraging: the batting looks deep, the bowling attack has options, and the spirit in the camp is strong. A good performance against Enfield would be the perfect final piece of momentum to carry into opening day next week.

Saturday promises to be more than just a friendly. It’s a celebration — of new beginnings at Lowfield, of the return of cricket after a long winter, and of the bright future Hoddesdon Cricket Club is building. Pack your sunglasses, bring your best cricket banter, and get down to Lowfield for midday.

See you at Lowfield!

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