Australia Over-70s to play in Suffolk

July 21, 2023

AUSTRALIA Over-70s are to play in Suffolk at the start of next month.

The tourists will play Suffolk Over-70s in a 45-overs-a-side match at Copdock & Old Ipswichian CC on Tuesday, August 1st, start 1pm.

The match, which will be sponsored by Gladwells Pet & Country Store, is one of a series of warm-up matches ahead of three one-day internationals against England.

The fixture is the only warm-up match in the East of England and will take place just five days before the first ODI at Colchester & East Essex CC on Sunday, August 6th.

Bill Chambers, Chairman of Suffolk Seniors Cricket, said: “When arranging their UK tour whereby they were to play three ODI’s against England and one against Wales, the Australians wanted to play against the top Over-70s county sides as well.

“Suffolk, who were national runners-up last year, were selected as one of the teams to play. The other Counties selected are Surrey, Kent, Herts, Yorks/Lincs, Cheshire and Berks/Bucks.

“Copdock was chosen to host the match because of the facilities on offer, an easy route up from London and also for their catering arrangements.

“To be rewarded with this fixture is owing to the whole team’s magnificent performance in 2022 and we are duly honoured to have been selected.”

There is no entry charge for the game and Chambers urged spectators to come and watch.

He said: “Some readers may be surprised that cricket is still played in our twilight years and to a high standard.

“Should you have never seen or experienced the older generation play and enjoy the beautiful game, please feel free to come along and witness the spectacle.

“Suffolk County Seniors Cricket have an Over-50s first and second team, an Over-60s first, second and third team as well as the Over-70s all playing in county games, firstly in a regional league then the top sides competing in a national knock out tournament to decide the overall champions.”

There will be a post-match barbecue for players and officials. Should there be others wanting to eat, tickets for purchase in the pavilion will be available on a first come basis after the guests have been served.

Martin Taylor, who is head of facilities and lead groundsman at Copdock & Old Ipswichian CC, said: “The club are delighted to be hosting the Australia versus Suffolk Over-70s game.

“Over the past few seasons the Suffolk Over-70s team have become regulars at the club and they are fantastic guests to host and bring alive some wonderful old fashion values of the game and are always welcome.

“We would welcome all to the game who wish to attend, the bar will be open all day and you can sure of a warm welcome.”

The Suffolk Over-70s side that finished runners-up in the final of the National competition last season are pictured above.

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