Ospreys players will take to the wicket again next month for the now traditional annual charity 20/20 match against Mumbles Cricket Club.
Honours are even in the series with one win apiece so it is all to play for as the two teams go head to head in aid of the Ospreys official charity partner for 2012/13, Velindre Cancer Centre’s Stepping Stones Appeal, on Friday 3rd August.
The action will once again take place at Mumbles' picturesque Marespool Ground at Plunch Lane, with the first over to be bowled at 4.00pm, weather permitting. Admission will be just £3 with free admission for U16's, and facilities for supporters on the night will include a barbecue and bar facility, with proceeds from entry and a collection on the night going to the charity.
The inaugural clash in 2009 saw Mumbles inflict a heavy defeat in glorious weather on an Ospreys XI, winning by 41 runs, before 2010’s scheduled clash was postponed following a week of torrential rain.
The tables were turned last year however, big-hitting Hanno Dirksen catching the eye with an adventurous innings that set up a thrilling finish, centre Ben John hitting a matchwinning six in the final over to secure an unexpected victory for the Ospreys.
Ospreys Head Coach, Steve Tandy, said he’s looking forward to taking his team to Mumbles for an important part of the pre-season preparations:
“Over the last few years the annual 20/20 match has become a firm part of the pre-season calendar at the Ospreys. It’s an important event in several ways, not least in the funds it raises for worthwhile causes, and it allows us to spend some time as a team out in the community, getting to know the people of Ospreylia.
“We’re grateful to Mumbles Cricket Club for their co-operation in putting on what is always a great occasion and I’d hope that the public will get behind this event and help the Stepping Stones Appeal on the 3rd August.”
Mumbles Cricket Club's history extends over 100 years and today it fields three League XIs on Saturday's, a Midweek League XI, and seven Junior League sides, with the first team competing in the Swalec Premier Cricket League. In 2008, the club was awarded with the prestigious ECB Clubmark accreditation. The Marespool ground has Minor Counties status after hosting one-day cup fixtures for Wales.
Further details of the day, including confirmation of the full Ospreys XI, will be brought to you closer to the date. Please note that, for this game, there will be no parking facilities available within the ground itself.