THE moment most Isle of Wight cricket fans thought would never arrive — a return of the county game — has become reality as Newclose host Hampshire’s game with Nottinghamshire, starting today (Monday).

It will be the first County Championship match to be staged on the Island since 1962, when Hampshire played Worcestershire at the former J. Samuel White ground in Cowes.

Isle of Wight County Press: Former West Indies test player Fidel Edwards is likely to figure for Hampshire against Notts at Newclose this week. Photo: Graham BrownFormer West Indies test player Fidel Edwards is likely to figure for Hampshire against Notts at Newclose this week. Photo: Graham Brown

With World Cup fixtures taking place at the Ageas Bowl, Hampshire chose Newclose — widely regarded as one of the county’s top cricket ‘outgrounds’ — to stage the match.

The four-day game will potentially feature some of the world’s top players, such as England’s James Vince, Alex Hales, Samit Patel and Stuart Broad, as well as West Indian pace bowler Fidel Edwards.

Isle of Wight County Press: England test and one-day star James vince is likely to figure for Hants against Notts at Newclose this week. Photo: Graham BrownEngland test and one-day star James vince is likely to figure for Hants against Notts at Newclose this week. Photo: Graham Brown

Newclose trustee and general manager, Hugh Griffiths, said: “Ten years of hard work by Newclose’s groundsman, Andy Butler, has proved to be the deciding factor in Hampshire choosing the Island venue, in preference to more accessible mainland club grounds.

"We very much hope Island sports fans will want to make the match a success for the benefit of cricket and to convince Hampshire matches like this should become an annual event.

"An important side effect will inevitably be a boost to the Isle of Wight’s tourist industry.”

The Island’s first county match in 57 years will also see legendary ex-England wicketkeeper Jack Russell at his own art exhibition marquee at Newclose.

Starts daily at 11am.