SEVERAL members of Gloucestershire’s successful one-day side from a decade ago will reunite to mark the opening of a new pavilion at Oldlands on Sunday.

Former England international Mike Smith will captain a Gloucestershire Legends side featuring the likes of Martyn Ball, Matt Windows and Tim Hancock in a 30-over match against Oldlands at Abwell.

Other players set to be involved who were part of the county side during the period between 1999 and 2004 where they won seven one-day trophies are Rob Cunliffe, James Averis, Dominic Hewson and Roger Sillence, while Andy Stovold, who played 354 first class matches and 294 one-day matches between 1973 and 1990, will also play.

Left-arm swing bowler Smith played one Test for England against Australia at Headingly in 1997 when Graham Thorpe famously dropped Matthew Elliott off his bowling and he retired from professional cricket in 2003 after making his Gloucestershire debut in 1991.

He took on the mantle of getting his old team-mates together as he works with Oldlands cricketer George Pennington at Bristol law firm Bevan Brittan.

Oldlands captain Steve Pennington said: “I can’t speak highly enough of Mike Smith and the way he’s taken it on. He’s been fantastic in getting a side together.

“For our players in their 20s and 30s, these are the guys they started off watching when they were at school during that very successful one-day period.

“He should’ve played more for England, he was the premier bowler of his type at the time.”

Before the game Smith will officially open the new pavilion, which was built by members of the club over the winter after the old one was knocked down at the end of last season.

Pennington added: “The effort from everyone has been incredible and the difference in facilities is great.

“There was a lot of character in the old pavilion, but it was on its last legs.

“Brad Thomas and Duncan Thomas were the driving force behind the work. We’re very proud of what they’ve done.”

The game starts at 2.30pm. Entry is free for spectators with teas and refreshments available throughout the afternoon, with a bouncy castle for the youngsters.

Pennington added: “The weather is looking more promising. We’ve contacted a number of local clubs and invited them to lunch, so we’re hoping it will be a good turnout.”

The game will be umpired by Darren Turl, Terry Deakin and Shaun Smith.

Gloucestershire Legends: Mike Smith, Tim Hancock, Rob Cunliffe, Simon Hinks, Matt Windows, Dean Hodgson, Dominic Hewson, Andy Stovold, Martyn Ball, James Averis, Ricky Williams, Roger Sillence, Martin Gerrard.