A HOST of cricket superstars have joined the line-up at a fundraising event taking place next month.

The Lashings team, featuring several of the biggest names in the game, will take to the field at Chester-le-Street in a one-off match against a team made up of Durham cricketers and a yet-to-be-announced line-up of sporting personalities.

Among the starts turning out for The Lashings team will be former Australian Ashes all-rounder Marcus North, West Indies fast bowler Tino Best and ex-England stars Devon Malcolm, Phil Defretitas, Adam Hollioake and Owais Shah.

The game takes place on Sunday, August 16 as part of Durham’s Big Birthday Blast: a double celebration to mark 20 years of cricket at the Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground as well as the anniversary of Durham fund-giving organisation County Durham Community Foundation.

The star-studded match is just part of a day of family entertainment, including interval appearances from Peppa Pig and SpongeBob SquarePants, soft play, a mini funfair, and food and drink from local producers.

David Harker, chief executive of Durham County Cricket Club, said: “The Lashings line-up is looking fantastic, and will provide a great opportunity for cricket fans to watch some of the finest players the sport has seen take to the field and take on our very own Jets players.”

The event will also help raise funds for County Durham Community Foundation and for the club’s bid to develop a community-use training ground on land close to its stadium.

Gates open at noon, with the Lashings XI cricket match starting at 3pm. Adult tickets are £5, while children go free.

There is also an opportunity to mingle with the players at a Lashings Lunch, with tables of ten available for £500.

Tickets can be pre-booked via www.durhamccc.co.uk or 0844 499 4466.