Sporting History of Hampshire

Hampshire county cricket teams have been traced back to the 18th century but the county’s involvement in cricket goes back much further than that. Given that the first definite mention of cricket anywhere in the world is dated c.1550 in Guildford, in neighbouring Surrey, it is almost certain that the game had reached Hampshire by the 16th century.

Painting of cricket at Hambledon in the 16th century with the new Rose Bowl, home to Hampshire Cricket Club today.

Southampton FC has a rich and varied history, from humble beginnings to The Premier League. See story

Add your memories and stories of any sport played in Hampshire in the last 100 years.