Australian and Angus Rotarians set for charity ‘Ashes’ battle

Rotarians will play out a battle for the Ashes in Forfar on Friday – all in the name of charity.

The International Fellowship of Cricketing Rotarians from Australia are embarking on a UK tour, starting in Scotland and finishing in Hampshire.

This will be their third trip to Angus and they will be playing at Strathmore Cricket Club at 2pm.

A local team of Rotarians, including a few from the cricket club, will be playing a keenly fought match over 35 overs.

There will also be a family barbecue at the club in the evening to raise funds for the Rotary’s challenge of eradicating polio throughout the world.

Keith Hopkins, a Rotarian from Kirriemuir, said: “The Fellowship is a great way for those who like cricket to travel the world and meet other likeminded people who not only have a love of cricket, but also share in their Rotary ideals of service above self.

“I have recently returned from a World Festival in New Zealand, where there were cricket-loving Rotarians from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Australia and New Zealand as well as the UK among the 250 attendees.

“We swapped ideas and have matched clubs to do projects together.

“The next festival will be held in Melbourne in 2019.”

The public are invited to come along to the match and the barbecue.

Mark Stewart, from the cricket club, said: “We love having these visitors here as they show how, no matter your age, you can enjoy the game and play it in the right spirit.”

To find out more contact Keith on 07715052718 or Mark on 07745294120.