THE Ashes series is currently in full swing.

And while Ben Stokes' England side take on Australia for the famous urn, senior players from the two countries are preparing to do battle for the 'Silver Ashes', at Castle Park.

The Men’s series runs parallel with the Women’s and concludes with a Seniors One Day International series, which will start in Colchester on August 6.

England over-70s will take on Australia over-70s in a match comprising 50 overs and featuring the best senior county players in the country.

England hope to retain the 'Silver Ashes' which the Australians failed to prise away from them on home turf, in February.

The England Selectors have named an over-70s squad of 15 for the series: John Evans (captain, Gloucestershire), Derek Towe (vice-captain, Kent), Ian Cause (Lancashire), Steve Shepard (Somerset), Trevor Spindle (Berks & Bucks), Andy Peters (Surrey), John Hall (Surrey), Nick Andrews (Cams/Hunts), Simon Sargent (Essex), Mike Stafford (Middlesex), Chris Swadkin (Kent), Martin Southwell (Essex), Tim Smith (Essex), Mick Kenyon (Yorkshire), Nigel Bellety (wicket-keeper, Gloucestershire).

The Castle Park One Day international fixture takes place on Sunday, August 6, starting at 12.30pm.

The match will coincide with the Colchester Cricket and Beer Festival, at Castle Park.