Tickets for the Essex versus Australia three day match on June 29, June 30 and July 1, to be played at the County Ground, Chelmsford go on sale today.

The friendly fixture, despite being more than five months away, is already attracting a lot of enquiries and is likely to be a sell-out

Club Secretary Malcolm Field admitted that the club have been delighted with the response of both supporters and corporate organisations to the match stating: "The Australians are always a popular attraction and this year is no exception.

''Some of the Test match days are already sold-out and it could well be that the only chance that many followers will have of seeing the tourists in action is when they play the counties.

''Essex cricket has benefited tremendously over the years through having an Australian as their Overseas player. Mark Waugh played for us for a number of seasons and Steve Waugh played a bit of Second Eleven cricket early in his career.

Mr Field added: ''Then we had Michael Kasprowicz for a year and there is every likelihood that all three players will feature in the Australian tour party..

"The game at Chelmsford has really captured the imagination, and we would recommend that the public purchase their tickets in advance in order to save disappointment nearer the time.''

Tickets are priced at £11 for adults and £6 for juniors. There are reserved seats on sale, both covered and uncovered, for an extra £5.

Members are admitted free to the ground on production of their membership passes, but they too can reserve a seat for £5.

Tickets for the game can be ordered on the Essex Cricket Ticket Line on 01245 254010 or by personal application to the County Ground.

There are also a limited number of Corporate Hospitality packages available and all enquiries regarding these should be made to the Essex Cricket Commercial Department on 01245 254000.

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