Teacher set to take on Aussies in Over 50s Ashes

Martyn Gidley captained England against Ireland last month and now Australia lies in wait

A Leicestershire teacher has been selected to play cricket against the Australians in the Over 50s Ashes this summer.

Martyn Gidley has earned a place in the England team taking on the Aussies in the three-match series later this month.

The 56-year-old, a cricket coach at Loughborough Grammar School, said he was looking forward to defending the urn, currently in England's possession.

"I'm really honoured to be picked," he said.

Martyn Gidley said he "tried not to embarrass his pupils" when he played for England

"Every young English cricketer dreams of playing in the Ashes - and I got there in the end.

"Whatever the age group, the Ashes is always really competitive.

"We won it last time so they will be out for revenge."

The all-rounder, who previously played professionally for Leicestershire County Cricket Club and in South Africa, captained the England Over 50s for the first time against Ireland in May.

He said: "The school has been really supportive giving me some time off for the Ashes.

"The boys also watch the streamed games when I'm playing. I joke that I try not to embarrass them but I hope it inspires them to see me representing the country."

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