Family Team: The Jolland Dynasty on the Cricket Field

Newmarket Midweek Second XI fielded an entire team consisting of members from the Jolland family. This unusual setup posed a challenge for the scorer, as every player on the team shared the same last name—Jolland.

Even the umpire for the match against Thurlow & Old Mill Greenians Seconds in division five of the Haverhill & District Midweek Cricket League was a Jolland. The team, captained by Jimmy Jolland, featured his brothers Mark and Nick, along with Jimmy’s sons Henry, Freddie, and George. Nick’s sons, Jack and Archie, also played, as did Mark’s son Ryan, and their nephews Brandon and Daniel. Stephen Jolland, the father of Jimmy, Mark, and Nick, took on the role of umpire. The Jolland family primarily resides in Wickhambrook, Suffolk, and has been playing together for Dullingham's village team before merging with Newmarket.

Jimmy Jolland recounted a moment from the game, saying, "One of their bowlers got Mark out early and said, ‘Oh, I’ve got a Jolland out.’" He added that while they had fielded seven or eight family members in previous matches, this was the first time the entire team was composed of Jollands, with the youngest, 12-year-old George, making his debut. Jimmy noted that his son George, who plays county cricket for Cambridgeshire, was allowed to join the team once they received permission, making this match a special occasion.

The Jolland family's team synergy led Newmarket to a six-wicket victory. They bowled out their opponents for 84 runs, with notable performances from Mark Jolland, who took two wickets for eight runs, and George Jolland, who took two wickets for nine runs. In the chase, Ryan Jolland top-scored, retiring with 26 runs, leading the team to achieve their target within 12 overs.

Reflecting on the game's significance, Jimmy Jolland said, "It was a special moment for the family. It is all a bit of fun, really." As captain, Jimmy manages to balance the roles and expectations of his family members, ensuring everyone gets an opportunity to contribute. He described himself as a "strict captain," emphasizing that he keeps everyone in line.

Newmarket Midweek Second XI's lineup included Mark Jolland, Jimmy Jolland (c), Nick Jolland, Daniel Jolland, Ryan Jolland, Jack Jolland, Henry Jolland, Freddie Jolland, Archie Jolland, Brandon Jolland, and George Jolland.