Stephen Fry to Umpire All-Star Cricket Match at Hay Festival’s Inaugural Sports Day
Stephen Fry, the beloved British actor, comedian, and presenter, is set to showcase his umpiring skills at this year’s Hay Festival as he takes on the role of umpire in an all-star cricket match. The literary festival, in partnership with The Independent, will span 11 days in May and June, with a special Sports Day scheduled for Wednesday 29 May.
The cricket match will feature Hay Town facing off against an impressive all-star team including broadcaster Adam Rutherford, writers Robert Macfarlane and Charlie Campbell, comedians Marcus Brigstocke and Carrie Quinlan, musician and actor Johnny Flynn, and professional cricketers Claire Taylor and Azeem Rafiq. The match promises to be a thrilling display of talent and sportsmanship, with a touch of humor thrown in by the witty players.
Cricket and literature have a long-standing connection, with many players coming from the esteemed Authors Cricket Team, which boasts a rich history dating back a century. The team has faced off against various opponents, including IPL players, the Vatican, and national teams from around the world.
Hay Festival president Stephen Fry, a self-proclaimed cricket fan, will be overseeing the match as umpire, ensuring fair play and adding his own unique flair to the event. Festival CEO Julie Finch expressed excitement for the Sports Day, highlighting the intersection of sports and the arts in promoting wellbeing.
In addition to the cricket match, Sports Day at the festival will feature appearances from sports personalities like Gary Lineker, Judy Murray, and Lord Sebastian Coe, offering a diverse range of activities and discussions for attendees to enjoy. The festival’s program promises a mix of literary, dramatic, and performance events, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Tickets for the Hay Festival, including the Sports Day, are now available for purchase, offering a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of sports, literature, and entertainment in a picturesque setting. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that promises to be a day to remember for sports and culture enthusiasts alike.