CHIPPING Sodbury are hoping to pack the Ridings out on Sunday for a special T20 match against Gloucestershire in aid of Chris Dent’s testimonial season.

A busy day will get underway with coaching sessions for youngsters at noon before the exhibition game starts at 2pm.

Dent, who has been granted a benefit season by Gloucestershire in recognition of his outstanding service and loyalty, is bringing along many of his county colleagues to Sodbury for the match, including England international James Bracey, Australia’s Cameron Bancroft and Gloucestershire white ball captain Jack Taylor.

Bristol-born Dent joined the county’s pathway at the age of 12 and is Gloucestershire’s longest-serving player having made more than 350 appearances across 15 seasons for his boyhood club.

Sodbury chair Jim Kendall said: “We’re delighted to be hosting a game to celebrate Chris’ fantastic contribution to Gloucestershire, and hope that the ground will be fully ringed by cricket fans eager to get a close look at the stars and all the action.

“Admission is free while we will be running food and drink stalls as well as offering a raffle with some great prizes.

“All the players will be happy to sign autographs and pose for selfies with fans of all ages!

“Parking at the ground and across the Ridings is limited so we’re encouraging as many local spectators as possible to walk or cycle over.”

Sodbury’s first XI go into the match buoyed by a tremendous 161-run win on Saturday away to Langford which lifted Jamie Rendell’s side to second place in WEPL’s Gloucestershire division.

The 5ths, playing at Grittleton against Blagdon, completed a memorable one-wicket win thanks to the last wicket efforts of Jim Deane (62 not) and Jim Kendall (46 not).

And there was a 30-run win for Sodbury’s Sunday XI against Frenchay with James Naude and Riley Wakefield capturing three wickets apiece.

SODBURY’S Under-17s are through to the Bristol Youth League’s Colin Mitchell Cup final after defeating Knowle by 16 runs, captain Callum Mealing (34) and Ewan Frost (3-16) both shining in a fine team display.

The final against Bristol CC takes place at Twyford House on Tuesday, August 13, all supporters welcome.