Henry Blofeld

Henry Blofeld OBE is a legendary cricket commentator and author celebrated for his unmistakably fruity tones, idiosyncratic observations, and trademark bow tie. Affectionately known as "Blowers", he served as the longest-standing member of BBC Radio's Test Match Special before retiring from the microphone at Lord's in 2017, having delighted audiences since 1972 with his quintessentially eloquent style. His acclaimed books include autobiography Squeezing the Orange and memoir Over and Out. Audiences at corporate events and dinners gain hilarious insights into cricket history, life stories, and overcoming adversity, delivered with warmth, wit, and the unmistakable charm that made him a national treasure.

When Henry Blofeld hung up his microphone at Lord's in 2017, he brought to a close 45 years as the longest-serving member of BBC Radio's Test Match Special, a tenure that transformed him into one of cricket's most beloved voices. Affectionately nicknamed "Blowers" by fellow commentator Brian Johnston upon joining TMS in 1972, he carved out a broadcasting career defined by his unmistakably fruity tones, trademark bow tie, and delightfully idiosyncratic observations that extended far beyond the boundary rope. His journey into sports journalism began with a bold decision to leave merchant banking in the City, a choice vindicated when his reporting on England's 1963/64 tour of India for The Guardian established his reputation as a writer of uncommon flair and insight.

Throughout his distinguished career, Blofeld has authored eight books, including his acclaimed 2013 autobiography Squeezing the Orange, which chronicles his encounters with celebrities and politicians alongside a memorable 46-day road trip from London to Bombay in a vintage Rolls-Royce, and Over and Out in 2017, a warm recollection of his years with the Test Match Special team. His Old Etonian background and Cambridge education shine through in his quintessentially articulated syntax and vocabulary, yet it is his ability to notice the minute details, from passing buses to pigeons on the pitch, that endears him to listeners and makes them feel present at the ground. Awarded an OBE for his services to broadcasting, he remains in considerable demand for newspaper columns, television and radio interviews, and his popular one-man shows that draw audiences seeking both cricket wisdom and entertainment.

Blofeld continues to captivate audiences at corporate events and after-dinner engagements with his vast repertoire of hilarious anecdotes, insights into cricket history, and reflections on overcoming life-threatening challenges. His presentations blend humour with heartfelt storytelling, offering guests an authentic connection to cricket's golden eras and the characters who shaped them. Looking ahead, he will provide live commentary at the Cricket on Ice Trophy 2026 in St. Moritz, Switzerland, where his voice will echo across the frozen lake from 11 to 14 February, culminating in an after-dinner address at the tournament's gala. Whether recounting tales from the Test Match Special commentary box or sharing lessons from a lifetime immersed in the game, Blofeld delivers warmth, wit, and unmistakable charm that leaves audiences both entertained and inspired.