TYNEDALE Cricket Club are stepping up their preparations ahead of the new cricket season.

They will travel to Blagdon Park for a friendly match on Saturday, and will welcome local rivals Stocksfield to Prior’s Flat on Sunday.

Tynedale’s Tom Cant said the matches would provide invaluable grass practice ahead of the season in the Northumberland and Tyneside Cricket League.

He added: “The ground staff have worked exceptionally hard to get the games going ahead and we are all looking forward to getting back out there.”

For Tynedale supporters, this weekend will be the first opportunity to see new signing, Australian Josh Shuard, in action.

Both matches will begin at 1pm, and spectators are welcome to attend.