A team of former Oxford United players will be donning a different pair of boots when they turn out in a charity cricket match next month, writes MARK EDWARDS.

Organised by former midfielder Phill Heath, the U’s old boys will play hosts Chipping Norton CC on Sunday, July 5 (1pm).

Heath and brother-in-law Greg Thorley, both Chipping Norton residents, ran the London Marathon for their respective charities, The Alzheimer’s Society and Get Kids Going.

They have raised more than £9,000 so far and hope to swell that figure.

Confirmed players in the U’s team for the 20-over match include Mickey Lewis, Andy Melville, Mike Ford, Chris Allen, Peter Rhoades-Brown, Les Phillips, Malcolm Crosby, Jimmy Phillips, Les Robinson, Dave Penney and Heath.

Admission on the day is free and there will be a barbecue, bar and raffle prizes, with all proceeds being split between the two charities.

“We have all kept in touch and have done several charity matches since we stopped playing,” Heath said.

“Usually these have been football, but we’re looking forward to this.”