Cricket enthusiasts gathered at the Isle of Wight County Cricket Ground at Newclose last week for a memorable evening with Rod Bransgrove and Ivo Tennant.
The event offered a rare insight into the remarkable story of how Bransgrove saved Hampshire County Cricket Club from financial ruin in 1999, as detailed in Tennant’s book, Back From The Brink.
Hosted by sports writer Mike Vimpany in the Brian Gardener Pavilion, the evening drew 60 cricket fans.
Bransgrove, the long-term financial supporter and former chair of Hampshire Cricket, reflected on his challenge with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the eventual triumph of securing an Ashes Test Match at the Ageas Bowl in 2027.
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He also spoke about Hampshire Cricket’s recent £120 million sale to the owners of the IPL’s Delhi Capitals, which takes effect in 2026.
The discussion highlighted the role of Newclose founder Brian Gardener in creating a world-class cricket facility on the Island, described in the book as “hewn from agricultural land,” and modelled the scoreboards on the Oval.
Bransgrove’s admiration for Gardener’s vision was evident as he praised Newclose as a vital part of Hampshire’s cricketing legacy.
The audience also heard fond recollections of cricketing legends Shane Warne and Kevin Pietersen, whose time at Hampshire under Brangrove’s leadership left lasting impacts on the club’s success and global connections.
Following a lively Q&A session, attendees received signed copies of Back From the Brink and prints of a painting by Island artist Jocelyn Galsworthy depicting Newclose’s grand opening in 2009.
Newclose Trustee Hugh Griffiths concluded the evening by expressing optimism for the ground’s future, with upcoming events including women’s professional cricket and a repeat of the Australian Senior Cricketers’ tour in 2026.
The event’s success has sparked enthusiasm for a proposed IW Cricket Society, promising more opportunities to celebrate the game.
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