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In one of the most delightfully unexpected stories of the week, Graham Gouldman, founding member of legendary band 10cc, has finally attended his first-ever cricket match, an incredible 47 years after singing one of the sport’s most iconic lyrics.
Gouldman, 79, helped pen the band’s 1978 hit “Dreadlock Holiday”, which features the immortal line: “I don’t like cricket – I love it.” The track went on to become a chart-topping success and has since been adopted as an unofficial anthem by cricket fans around the world.
But despite his musical love letter to the sport, the musician had never actually attended a game, until now.
That changed this week when Gouldman was spotted at The Oval, where he finally watched England take on the West Indies in a thrilling match. And, according to the man himself, it didn’t disappoint.
"After today’s experience I can say, ‘I don’t like cricket – I absolutely love it,’” Gouldman said, clearly chuffed. “I’ve had a really lovely day really, enjoyed it… great atmosphere, great people. I just had a wonderful time.”
The game itself proved just as satisfying for English fans, as England emerged victorious, but the moment was made even more special by the presence of a man whose lyrics have echoed around cricket grounds for decades.
“Dreadlock Holiday” was inspired by Gouldman and bandmate Eric Stewart’s travels in Jamaica, and while the line about cricket was originally written to reflect a casual conversation, it quickly took on a life of its own.
Ever since, the song has become a staple at stadiums and a firm favourite among cricket lovers, so much so that fans often assume Gouldman has long been a devoted match-day regular.
This appearance, however, marks a full-circle moment in British pop culture history, finally aligning the music with the moment.
Gouldman’s joyous reaction has sparked a wave of nostalgia among 10cc fans and cricket followers alike, with many praising the charming twist in the tale. Some have even called for the band to perform the song live at a future England fixture.
Whether or not that happens, one thing’s for certain: Graham Gouldman doesn’t just love cricket, he’s now officially part of it.
