HAWKESBURY Upton has once again been confirmed as the venue for the annual challenge match between the Bristol & District and Gloucestershire County leagues on September 14 (12.30pm).
This will be the third time the two competitions have contested the Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation Cup, with Bristol & District currently holding a 2-0 advantage after, coincidentally, winning both previous encounters by two wickets.
Timsbury’s Mark Sage is to captain the Bristol & District in this 40-over contest while the Gloucestershire County League will be led by George Bailey, of South Gloucestershire host club Hawkesbury who under his leadership recently secured promotion to WEPL for the first time in their history.
Gloucestershire County League chair Tom Stevens said: “Many thanks to Hawkesbury for agreeing to stage the challenge game after being excellent hosts last year.
“It’s one of the prettiest grounds in the west and absolutely perfect geographically for both leagues.
“George is also a perfect choice to be our captain after enjoying such a memorable season.
“We’ve battled hard in both of the previous games and are determined to go one better this time round.”
John Peplow, his counterpart at the Bristol & District League, added: “This challenge match is the perfect way for us all to end the season and we’re looking forward to another memorable day of cricket.
“Mark Sage, our captain, is an extremely experienced campaigner and played an important innings in last year’s game, and we’re very glad to have him leading the team.”
The John Hawkins Field is located off Hawkesbury’s high street at GL9 1AU.