The much-anticipated Old Uplanders’ cricket game took place on Saturday 26 August 2023, on the morning of the Centenary Celebrations of Webster House. This friendly match brought together a group of past pupils, some of whom had not set foot on the cricket field in decades, creating a nostalgic and spirited atmosphere. Among the players was James Sheard (the pioneering UPPA Chair) who, according to rumour, had last played cricket a whopping twenty years ago. James donned his new UPPA cap, and shared that “We had a wonderful day of camaraderie where old friends reunited around the cricket field.”
The match followed a unique format where every player was required to bowl one over, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. The teams were divided into the Blue Team and the Red Team, with each side giving their best, despite some rustiness that had accumulated over the years. The Red Team set a respectable target, posting a total of just over 200 runs. The Blue Team faced an uphill battle as they approached the last over. They needed an impressive 26 runs to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
The fun Cricket game was a memorable occasion, filled with camaraderie, laughter, and a touch of competitive spirit. While the physical toll of the match may have lingered on the following day, the memories made were well worth it, reminding some that age is no barrier when it comes to the love of the game, and of the bonds of friendship formed at Uplands over the years.
