Cricket. Community. Ampleforth.
Exhibition Weekend Cricket Report 2026
Exhibition Weekend proved to be a tremendous success, blessed with fantastic weather and even better company, as a large number of Old Amplefordians returned to the Valley.
The weekend began on Friday morning with the inaugural Wyvill Croquet Cup, featuring 15 OAs. It set a wonderfully social tone for what would become a memorable few days. In the afternoon, attention turned to cricket, where two non-OA Parents’ XIs took on the OA Parents’ XIs in a pair of eagerly anticipated fixtures. With sizeable crowds lining the boundaries, both matches were played in great spirit. The non-OA sides rose superbly to the occasion, winning both games and playing with the kind of determination that suggested this was not an opportunity to be missed on hallowed grounds.
Saturday brought more excellent cricket, beginning with a lively and entertaining contest between a group of brave and talented Junior House parents and the College’s youngest players. Despite their enthusiasm, the parents were ultimately outplayed by their opponents. The Parents did, however, gain their revenge later in the day with a strong performance against the Colts.
The highlight of the day came on Match Ground, where spectators were treated to a thrilling encounter between the College 1st XI and the OACC. Chasing 155, the College appeared to be in control before a dramatic spell saw four wickets fall for just two runs, leaving them agonisingly short by 11 runs. The OAs celebrated a hard-fought and well-earned victory.
On Sunday, the OACC turned their attention to the prestigious Fawcett Cup fixture against I Zingari. After his heroics the previous day, Bevan Fawcett once again played a central role, skippering the OACC to a well-earned draw against his brother in a closely contested match.
Overall, it was a fabulous weekend enjoyed by players and spectators alike, reinforcing the strength of the Ampleforth community and the enduring appeal of cricket at the College.
To follow the Old Amplefordians Cricket Club, please visit our website and social media.
Membership is open to all Old Amplefordians. Please do get in touch if you would like to join the Club.
Sebastian Phillips (C00)
Head of Cricket, Ampleforth College & Chairman of the OACC
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