Cricketing icons roll into town

Lashings have revised their provisional squad which, although it remains subject to change, should ensure that a more than healthy galaxy of stars line up on the day.

There are only subtle alterations to the initial 13 man party revealed two weeks ago with Greg Blewett and Junior Murray replacing Henry Olonga and Alvin Kalicharan. But the big news is that West Indian pace legend Courtney Walsh, until recently Test cricket's all-time leading wicket-taker, is scheduled to fly into the country on Monday in time for the match at Horntye Park.

The full squad is: Shahid Afridi, Curtley Ambrose, Greg Blewett, Sherwin Campbell, Vasbert Drakes, Grant Flower, Chris Harris, Rashid Latif, Junior Murray, Richie Richardson, Franklyn Rose, Courtney Walsh, Stuart Williams.

Priory captain Carl Read said: "It's going to be massive - the highlight of the season on a non-competitive front. It's a brilliant day, it's great to get the crowd up there and it's fantastic to bowl against those guys. It's not a day for the team, it's for the whole club.

"It does make you focus more and (when bowling) you're thinking 'just get it in the right place'. You definitely thrive on it, the ball just seems to go through that bit better to the 'keeper.

"We're not going out there thinking we're going to win but there's definitely a bit of pride at stake and we want to do as well as we can."

Despite everyone being "desperate to play" Richard's Jackson and Young are unavailable whilst Jono McLean (broken hand) is a major doubt but will have a hit on Monday.

Tickets for the Hastings Observer-sponsored game, which cost adults 6 and children/pensioners 4 with the price inclusive of a match-day programme, can be purchased in advance by calling Style Promotions on (01424) 423123 or the Hastings Information Centre on (01424) 781128.

A guaranteed supply will also be available on the gate which opens at 12 noon for a 2pm start.

In addition to the cricket, there will be a bouncy castle, trade stands, including the Lashings roadshow, cricket memorabilia plus raffles and tombola.