Celebrating 25 Years of The Bowl: Party Like It's 2001 at Hawks v Surrey
Friday Night Blast returns to Utilita Bowl this Friday as Hampshire Hawks take on Surrey in a huge Vitality Blast double header celebrating 25 Years of The Bowl.
From retro music and giveaways to Hampshire legends, star players and summer entertainment around the ground, supporters can expect one of the biggest and most memorable Blast matchdays of the summer.
The women’s match gets underway at 3pm before the men’s side start under the lights at 7pm.
Friday’s fixture will celebrate the early 2000s and 25 years of Utilita Bowl, with retro tunes, throwback entertainment and nostalgic giveaways taking place throughout the day.
Supporters are encouraged to wear retro outfits, bring the noise and help turn Utilita Bowl into a sea of yellow for one of the standout nights of the Vitality Blast season. Expect classic 2000s music around the ground, Friday Night Blast energy under the lights and plenty of surprises across the matchday.
What’s happening around the ground?
The retro party will go beyond the cricket, with live music, family entertainment, giveaways and special guests across Utilita Bowl throughout the day.
Fans can enjoy:
Retro-themed live music before and after the men’s match
Family Zone activities around the ground
Crowd giveaways, including tickets, merchandise and nostalgic prizes
A best-dressed retro outfit competition
Player signings and selfies both matches
There will also be food, drink and entertainment available around the ground throughout the day and evening
Hampshire legends return
As part of the 25-year celebration, several legendary Hampshire players from the past quarter-century are set to be in attendance, including Nic Pothas, Chris Tremlett, John Crawley, Shaun Udal and Kyle Abbott.
Supporters will have the chance to celebrate the players and moments that helped shape cricket at Utilita Bowl across the past 25 years.
Celebrating Rod Bransgrove’s legacy
Ahead of the men’s match, there will be a special on-pitch tribute recognising former Group Chairman Rod Bransgrove’s outstanding contribution to Hampshire Cricket and Utilita Bowl over the past 25 years. Supporters will be able to watch the tribute from the stands ahead of the evening fixture.
All Stars & Dynamos Day
The fixture will also host All Stars & Dynamos Day, with junior participants and their families invited to enjoy the action and take part in a special pitch parade between matches.
The cricket
Friday’s double header will also feature some of the biggest stars in the Vitality Blast.
Hampshire Hawks are led by Blast Hall of Famer James Vince, whilst overseas stars Tristan Stubbs and Hilton Cartwright add firepower to the Hawks batting line-up.
Surrey will bring their own star names to Utilita Bowl, including England internationals and former Southern Vipers favourite Danni Wyatt.
With two strong squads, Friday Night Blast promises huge action both on and off the field.
Tickets for Hampshire Hawks vs Surrey are still available, with supporters encouraged to buy early and save before matchday prices apply. Advance adult tickets are just £29, with junior tickets only £5. Visit www.utilitabowl.com