The ultimate crossover between football and cricket will take place in Teesside later this month, with a special guest set to take the pitch.
Middlesbrough FC manager Kim Hellberg is swapping the dugout for the crease in a charity cricket match against Middlesbrough Cricket Club, in aid of MFC Foundation.
The match will be held at Acklam Park on July 26, including Hellberg in the line-up for Middlesbrough FC alongside his coaching staff and club legend Craig Hignett.
The fixture is being hosted by the cricket club as part of a double anniversary - Middlesbrough FC's 150th year and MFC Foundation's 30th.
The collaboration with the cricket club is a nod to their role in founding the football club back in 1876, and also revives a tradition of annual matches between the two clubs that continued until the late 1980s.
Cricket Club Chairman Mal Bruton said: "We're excited to welcome the football club staff to Acklam Park and be part of the 150th anniversary celebrations. We hope to attract a good crowd and raise vital money to help the Foundation continue its excellent work.
"It's fantastic that Kim Hellberg has agreed to play. It should be a great afternoon for families to enjoy."
Read more
Boro transfer blueprint, goalkeeper surprise & Hellberg follows Guardiola's lead
Kim Hellberg transfer update as Middlesbrough make second signing and work on more
Hundreds of schoolgirls play cricket at Riverside after England's World Cup run
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke added: "It's brilliant that the two clubs are coming together to support the foundation and celebrate two important anniversaries."
Gates will open at 1pm, with a DJ, barbeque and bar on hand for visitors to enjoy before the match, which will begin at 2pm.
Entry is £5 for adults and £2 for under-16s, with all gate money donated to MFC Foundation.
Share