07/08/2026
Friday Flashback. The England Cricket Captain Who Was Arrested! 🚂
Did you know one of Matjiesfontein's most fascinating stories involves the England cricket team?
In the late 1800s, touring English cricket teams regularly stayed at the famous Lord Milner Hotel, hosted by the legendary James Douglas Logan – the founder of Matjiesfontein and one of South Africa's greatest cricket pioneers.
After one tour, the England team departed Cape Town without their captain settling his hotel account. Logan wasn't about to let that slide!
Using his considerable influence, he obtained a warrant and had the England captain arrested on board his ship in Cape Town Harbour—just before it was due to sail back to England. The outstanding hotel bill was quickly paid, the captain was released, and the ship continued its voyage.
The incident made headlines throughout the British Empire and cemented Logan's reputation as a man who always got things done!
Today, visitors can still see Matjiesfontein's historic cricket ground, established in 1894, where many memorable matches were played and where this remarkable chapter of cricket history began.