FORMER England rugby union star Rob Andrew and Ageas Bowl chairman Rod Bransgrove will be among the special guests at Newclose for Twenty20 matches in July.
As previously reported in the CP, Hampshire will play Sussex in a three-day, second XI first class counties championship match, starting on July 10, before the teams play back-to-back Twenty20 matches on Thursday, July 13.
The first Twenty20 match will start at 11am, with the other scheduled for 2.30pm.
A hospitality event will be held to coincide with the Twenty20 matches, with Bransgrove, pictured, left, and Andrew, now Sussex’s chief executive, among the special guests.
Hugh Griffiths, secretary to the Newclose trustees, said: “It was ten years ago that work commenced on the Newclose playing area and it was always Brian Gardner’s wish that professional cricket should be a regular feature of the Newclose season.
“We have also lost his co-trustee and John Hilsum, who sadly died last August.
“Their vision, leadership and effort have inspired me and my fellow volunteers and we want to remember them and recognise their legacy on Thursday, July 13, when we celebrate the ground’s tenth birthday.”
The club hopes to welcome more than 100 guests for the hospitality event.
Anyone interested in attending should contact David Tolfrey on 07767 397393 or email dtolfrey@gmail.com