The 2026/27 Cheltenham Cricket Society season got off to a superb start, by welcoming back former Kent and England captain Chris Cowdrey, almost 25 years after his previous appearance in November 2001. His return also provided a wonderful link to CCS history, following his legendary father, Lord Colin Cowdrey, who appeared at the Society in 1991.
With no notes or prompts, Chris quickly settled into his stride, entertaining members with a fascinating mixture of cricketing stories, personal anecdotes and reflections on life both on and off the field.
A particularly engaging theme was growing up with the Cowdrey name. Chris spoke candidly about the advantages and pressures of being the son of such a celebrated England captain, describing it as a double-edged sword. While his family connections undoubtedly opened doors, they also brought unwanted media attention and occasional unkind remarks in the dressing room and cricket fraternity. His appointment as England captain by his godfather, Peter May, inevitably invited questions about favouritism, although Chris recalled that, at the time, England were struggling against a formidable West Indies side and he did not feel his selection was questioned unduly.
Chris fondly remembered playing alongside some outstanding cricketers, including close friend David Gower, Ian Botham, Mike Gatting and Alan Knott, as well as facing international greats such as Viv Richards, Kapil Dev, Malcolm Marshall, Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh to name but a few. He also recounted the entertaining story of how an enjoyable lunch and dinner with Glamorgan captain Alan Butcher led to him joining the county, only for the team’s fortunes to improve immediately after his departure!
Chris had some very fine words about players that he admired and that included Eddie Barlow who Chris said he most wanted to have played for and wanted to let our CCS President Cally Barlow know.
Reflecting on the evolution of professional cricket, Chris contrasted the sociable atmosphere of his playing days, when players regularly enjoyed a drink with their opponents after a match as a learning experience, with today’s more intensive, fitness-focused environment with multiple coaches. He acknowledged the exceptional commitment and professionalism demanded of modern players.
The discussion inevitably turned to the current state of English cricket. Chris offered measured but forthright opinions on franchise cricket, the Hundred, England’s future prospects and the rising cost of watching the game. His observations clearly resonated with CCS members.
Away from cricket, Chris spoke about his forthcoming book, “The Black Rabbit: No Crime is Insignificant”, due for publication in November 2026, and his very recent conversations with the late Jeffrey Archer, who had reviewed the book.
CCS members would agree that this true gentleman is a real credit to his father, the Cowdrey surname and the game of Cricket which was better for having him play his part. To cite the title of his book “good enough?” we would certainly agree he was that and definitely much more.
It was a pleasure to have Chris Cowdrey back as a guest at CCS after nearly 25 years. We hope that he doesn’t leave it that long to visit us again.
Sushil Sidhu – Oct 2026