BBC’S celebrated cricket commentator Henry Blofeld says he expects a “huge occasion for the village” as a team of world-class cricketers come to Odiham and Greywell Cricket Club to do battle next week.

Nicknamed Blowers, the 76-year-old ‘voice of Test Match Special’ will be commentating on a special 25-over game between the villagers’ cricket team and Lashings.

Lashings, a team which has had the likes of record-breaking batsmen Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar turn out for them in the past, visit local cricket clubs to take them on, helping promote cricket and raising funds for the teams. 

And 252 years after the inaugural game at Odiham and Greywell Cricket Club ground, a famous day on the field is expected. 

“I am tremendously thrilled to be taking part in what will be a momentous day for Odiham and Greywell Cricket Club,” Blowers told The Gazette.

“This gives local cricket lovers and families the chance to see genuine legends of the game in action in local conditions.

“It will be a different class of cricket to what the villagers might be used to and there is a chance for the club to raise some serious money – which could hopefully support the club for many years.”

Families from across the area are invited to the free event at the cricket ground to watch, chat and learn about cricket.

So far former bowler Monty Panesar, who took 167 wickets in 50 test matches for England, and South African legend Herschelle Gibbs, the first man to hit six sixes in an over in a One Day international have signed up. 

Blowers added: “From my point of view this could be huge for the village
“This could get a lot of young children interested in cricket and hopefully they will start to get involved with the T20 form of the game and then they will stay on for the longer forms.

“All the players are great and help make the day. The only problem there is, they have to listen to me commentate – actually if they know that, it might put them off.”

The event begins at Odiham and Greywell Cricket Club at 12.30pm on June 17, with the T25 game beginning at 3pm. Entry is free. For more information visit odiham-greywell.cc.