ENGLISH Cricket Board Club champions Richmondshire Cricket Club have accepted a prestigious fixture at Lord’s.

They will play against the famous Marylebone Cricket Club, owners of the Lord's ground.

The club will field a team drawn from their members who include many leading former and present day players from around the world.

The game will take place on Wednesday, April 24 at 10.30am and played over 50 overs.

Richmondshire Cricket Club hopes to be able to field a strong side led by professional Gary Pratt. Unfortunately hero of the 2018 season Matty McKiernan has now moved on, having obtained a contract with county side Derbyshire but hopefully his replacement South African all rounder Steve Reeves will be available.

Other than the two professionals, most of the side have come up through the clubs junior teams. Several of the latest crop of juniors who played in the national championship side at various stages are likely to be given the opportunity to step out at Lord’s.

These include two 17-year-olds – wicket keeper batsman Tom Dowson and spin bowler James Kelly – and 18-year-old all rounder Sam Winter.

Unfortunately, Richmondshire’s top bowler Craig Marshall will be out for the season after surgery for the knee ligament injury that kept him out of the final games of the national cup run.

Club chairman Mark Layfield said: "This an opportunity a club cricketer would normally only dream of, and I know the team will be keen to put on a good show."

A spokesperson for MCC has informed the club that provided all supporters and guests adhere to the dress code and are over 12 years of age, they will be permitted entry to the pavilion to watch the match.

Any guests with children under 12 will be able to watch from the Allen Stand.

Members of the Richmondshire committee are invited to watch the game from the Committee Room, and all players and officials will also be entitled to have one official guest for lunch in the Committee Dining Room.

Committee members and supporters are already making their plans for this once in a lifetime opportunity. For tickets or more details contact Mike Heseltine at mike.heseltine@richmondshire.org.uk.