Bearing no factory marks, it was printed and overpainted with a titled scene Bovey Tracey Cricket Ground, leading to speculation that it may have been made at one of a number of potteries which flourished and failed in the Devon town during the 19th century.

However, auctioneer Bowman said: “I discussed that with one of our main specialist dealers and he felt quite certain it was made in Staffordshire, probably c.1890-1900.”

As such, the vendor, a local dealer who had bought it in a job lot at another Devon sale, was happy with a £100-150 estimate.

Two cricket memorabilia specialists saw a different appeal and the cup, measuring 9in (23cm) across the handles, sold to one of them at £7200 at the March 16 auction.