Match Preview: Broxbourne CC 1st XI vs Hoddesdon CC 1st XI
HPCL Championship Division | Saturday 2nd August 2025 | Mill Lane Close

This Saturday, Hoddesdon Cricket Club’s 1st XI make the short trip to Mill Lane Close for a much-anticipated derby clash against local rivals Broxbourne CC in the latest round of the HPCL Championship Division. With the two sides both enjoying strong seasons and plenty at stake in the title race, this encounter promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the summer.

Broxbourne currently sit top of the table after 12 games, having picked up 277 points, after a draw with Shenley last weekend. Hoddesdon, meanwhile, lie 5th place. A win for Rob Walters’ side would significantly boost their chances of a top 3 finish, while simultaneously denting Broxbourne’s hopes of pulling away at the summit.

This weekend’s match comes just over two months on from the reverse fixture at Lowfield — a high-quality contest that saw Broxbourne run out 67-run winners. On that day, the visitors’ powerful batting unit posted 250 for 7 from their 50 overs, before their disciplined and well-drilled bowling attack dismissed Hoddesdon for 183 in 43.4 overs.

Despite the defeat, there were several positives for the Green Machine, not least a defiant 65 from Rob Jones, who lead the innings and showed real class against a strong attack. Muhammad Hasan Ali, Om Thakeria and Harry Mason were the standout bowlers for Hoddesdon, with Mason’s probing line and length troubling even Broxbourne’s top order. The defeat brought Broxbourne level on points with Old Owens at the time, maintaining their perfect start to the campaign, while Hoddesdon picked up 7 bonus points and stayed in touch with the leaders.

Fast-forward to August, and both sides remain in the hunt for a good finish to the season. Hoddesdon have responded impressively since that reverse, grinding out results with grit and team unity. Rob Walters has led by example as captain, providing stability and calm, and his presence will again be crucial this weekend, particularly in what is sure to be a lively derby atmosphere.

Saturday’s starting XI for Hoddesdon is packed with talent and depth. Walters will be joined by the ever-reliable James Mitchell and the attacking prowess of Ollie Arkinstall at the top of the order. All-rounders like Om Thakeria and Jamie Curtis offer flexibility in both disciplines, while the inclusion of Harry Mason and Muhammad Hasan Ali ensures the side has real penetration with the ball.

The likes of Todd Sturdy and Will Steward provide energy in the field and versatility in the middle order, while Clay Stone's recent form has added welcome consistency.

Broxbourne, meanwhile, have been the benchmark team in the division this year. Their success has been built on a mix of experienced campaigners and rising stars, with their batting line-up consistently producing scores in excess of 230. Their top order has shown patience and power in equal measure, and their seam attack — particularly with the new ball — has been relentless in applying pressure.

They’ll be confident on home turf, having made Mill Lane Close something of a fortress this year. However, they’ll also be wary of a Hoddesdon side that has shown on multiple occasions that it thrives on tough contests and doesn’t shy away from the fight.

The wider context adds spice to the occasion and every result from here on out could prove decisive. Broxbourne currently lead the way with but a defeat on Saturday could open the door to their pursuers, Old Owens. For Hoddesdon, the chance to cut the gap to their local rivals while keeping pressure on Redbourn and Shenley Village makes this a potentially season-defining afternoon.

The game will also be a reunion of sorts — not just geographically, but emotionally. The players know each other well, and many of the matchups will have a personal edge. Expect key battles between Hoddesdon’s top order and Broxbourne’s new-ball bowlers, as well as a chess match in the middle overs where spin could play a key role. How Walters and his opposite number George Davies manage the tactical side of the contest may well be just as important as individual brilliance. Davies himself was just shy of a half century last weekend and remains a huge threat with the bat this weekend. The likes of wicket keeper Nial Robinson can also be relied upon in the clutch moments.

With weather forecasts suggesting dry and warm conditions, a full match seems likely. The pitch at Mill Lane Close has tended to be good for batting early before offering something for the bowlers as the day wears on. Winning the toss could be significant — although both sides have shown an ability to adapt to chasing or setting a target when required.

Supporters are encouraged to travel and cheer on the Green Machine in what promises to be a fiercely competitive and entertaining clash. The match starts at 12:00pm, and with bragging rights, promotion hopes, and local pride all on the line, this is one not to miss.

#GreenMachine