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Andover Cricket Club was established in 1865, with home games being played at the London Road ground for most the club's history. Still the club's headquarters today, and with over 250 adult and junior members. More photos available in the History section.
Andover Cricket Club in 1930s
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In 1973 the club became a founder member of the Hampshire League and played its first County Division One League fixture on May 12 1973 away at Hartley Witney, winning by 99 runs. Andover led the league early season but suffered 2 defeats against Portsmouth & Southsea on Aug 4 & New Milton on Aug 11. Despite taking maximum points against St Cross in the last match Andover finished 13 points adrift of New Milton.
Andover were runners-up in 1974 and continued to have success through the late 19702 and early 1980s. In 1986, Andover were invited to join the Southern Premier League. Membership of the Southern Premier League lasted until 1994, when in controversial circumstances, Andover were relegated back to the Hampshire League.
Following a period of rejuvenation the Club’s fortunes were restored at the end of 1997 season with promotion back to the Southern Premier League was achieved. Since then Andover have continued to perform well at the highest level.
At the end of 1999 season Club cricket in Southern England was re-organised into three primary divisions: Gold, Silver, Bronze; when the Southern Premier League was born. The Hampshire League became four 'County' divisions, supplemented by ‘Regional’ divisions - East 1,2 & 3, West 1,2 & 3. Membership of the Southern League was offered to clubs based on achieving certain key accreditation criteria, including:-
Andover were delighted to be invited to join the Gold Division and become a member of the top ten elite clubs in Central Southern England.