A selection of the cricket world’s most recognised name’s, from the past and present, will pad up and head to the crease for a very special T20 next month.
The inaugural Cricket for Heroes match up will take place at the iconic Kia Oval on Thursday 17th September, raising money for national charity – Help for Heroes.
A Rest of the World XI will take on a Help for Heroes XI in what will be an all star match-up, including players from India, Pakistan, England and New Zealand.
Amongst the big names already confirmed to appear in the contest are three of Pakistan’s most famous cricketing sons.
Current T20 skipper, Shahid Afridi, is joined by countryman Abdul Razzaq on the field of play whilst the legendary Wasim Akram, will be coaching the Help for Heroes XI.
Cricket for Heroes Chair of Selectors, Allan Lamb, said: “It’s fantastic news that we have managed to secure three prominent Pakistan cricketers and I’m sure having them on board supporting a great cause will encourage Pakistan supporters to turn out in their numbers.
“We have even more big player announcements to follow which I’m sure will also generate a real buzz, especially within the Asian community.”
Last week it was announced that the Rest of the World XI will be captained by New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum, coached by Gary Kirsten and managed by Sunil Gavaskar, whilst Indian legend Virender Sehwag was the latest name confirmed to appear earlier this week.
Gavaskar urged cricket fans to come down for the day of sport and watch a completely unique T20 unfold.
“I am delighted to be managing the Rest of World XI,” he said. “I can resume some friendly rivalry with Sir Ian ‘Beefy’ Botham, albeit off the field and it will be special to be involved with such a great cause.
“The whole day is bound to be a wonderful experience and I urge all cricket supporters to come along and make a day of it.”
Meanwhile, the Help for Heroes XI are under the leadership of Andrew Strauss and the management of Sir Ian Botham.
Their squad features names such as Graeme Swann, Simon Jones, Matthew Hoggard and Darren Gough, to name a few.
The headline match will be preceded by the Old Mutual Changemakers Challenge Cup starting at 3pm.
This will be the very first match between the Help for Heroes Cricket Club and the England Physical Disability Cricket Team.
Tickets for this fun end of season party cost just £20 for adults and £1 for kids (under-16). Tickets can be bought online at www.cricketforheroes.com
For your chance to win a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to Cricket for Heroes, just answer the following question:
Who is the manager of the Rest of the World XI?
- Sunil Gavaskar
- Brendon McCullum
- Virender Sehwag
Send your answer (A, B, or C) along with your name, address, and contact number to competitions@test.test before Friday 28th August.
