Park yourself up for Ashes cricket (From Daily Echo)

Park yourself up for Ashes cricket

8:53am Friday 10th July 2009 in

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Cricket lovers are today expected to descend on Hoglands Park in Southampton to watch all the action from the first Ashes Test live on a giant screen.

Southampton was one of five cities across the country chosen by the England and Wales Cricket Board to host the free two-day event.

As well as watching Hampshire stars Kevin Pietersen and Aussie Marcus North do battle today and tomorrow Cricket in the Park will also feature a coaching zone.

Budding “Freddie” Flintoffs will receive qualified coaching tips, compare their skills against professional players and see their actions on the big screen. Fancy dress competitions, interactive cricket games, giveaways and special player appearances in the kidszone are also planned. There will also be a special Buxton’s Kids Zone so that children can run wild while their parents enjoy the action. Councillor Phil Williams, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “The parks are the jewel in Southampton’s crown with hundreds of thousands of people enjoying them every year. I’m really looking forward to this event which I believe will attract thousands of people to Hoglands Park.”

ECB head of marketing Will Collinson said: “It doesn’t matter whether you are a passionate supporter of Test cricket or have never seen or played cricket before, Cricket in the Park will be a great day out with international and community cricket providing the entertainment”.