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Nepotists Cricket Club was formed in 1980. Its origins at Oxford University still guide the ethos of the club today. Now London based, 'The Nepo's' play challenging games on beautiful grounds in and around the capital, which commence with practice sessions at Lord's (yes, THE Lord's) at 8pm on the first three Tuesday's in April (remember these dates if you are in London!).
We are a medium strength 'Wandering' side, playing the 'Non-League League' on Sunday afternoons in North / West London, plus one fixture in Shepperton and one at Windsor. We play 40 overs a side, though two regular fixtures are 'time games'. Besides our 'Legends' (those that formed the club and long-serving Nepo's awarded Legend status) we have a long tradition of fielding plenty of Antipodeans, who make up most of our playing eleven each week, though all nationals are welcome!
We are a fun team with an array of quirky antics designed to amuse before distract our opposition. At the same time we play solid competitive cricket, and 'normally' win more than we lose. We never sledge the opposition (we're there to have fun!), only ourselves - and we do it very well! It matters not what your experience as often your bad ability may be the part of the best 11 we can field, and you are welcome to play a few games or the whole season if you are available.
An availability email goes out every Monday and in essence the first 11 to reply 'available' is the team. Over-subscription means we select on playing history with any Legend guaranteed selection if available. We are a very stress free club with a 41 years history of which you are welcome to be a part.
You won't need anything but your sense of humour as all playing kit is provided along with Nepotists branded whites, sweaters, and our much desired and admired 'Lime Green & Magenta' caps. If you intend playing the whole season and beyond, you can buy Nepo whites (£40) and cap (£20), as many Nepo's have, to save fossicking about for the 'perfect whites' you blindly threw back in last week.
Two highlights of our season are firstly, the annual game in June/July at Windsor Castle against 'Royal Household Cricket Club' where HRH the Queen occasionally makes a guest appearance as a spectator on Frogmore Field. A very popular fixture, many Nepo's make a showing just to enjoy the scenery and picnic on the lawns.
Secondly, our end of season weekend Oxford Tour for the Steve Werren Invitational Golf Tournament on Friday, followed by the ISIS Trophy (a four team competition) on Saturday & Sunday. This weekend of frivolity involves golf, cricket, live music, Mr Freeze, a BBQ, a stray golf-ball, and lots of fun. You are welcome to make yourself available for just one game, just the golf, the entire weekend, or just as a spectator. The Nepo's also enjoy a 4 day golf tour to Devon in July to make sure our cricket leg-side swipes are paying dividends!
The Nepo season runs from the last two Sundays of April to the last Sunday of August. Each game will set you back a whopping £10 on a pay-per-play basis, which covers tea, match fees, and a beer in the club house afterwards. You will not find a more affordable way to enjoy a Sunday afternoon's cricket in London.
If you would like to 'Be A Nepo', visit the Nepo website and email your desire to don Lime Green & Magenta.
Yours in Nepotism,
Captain Lukey Sparrow