The inaugural showdown is scheduled for Sunday

Central Coast will field several Sydney-based players including former grade stars John Pym, Howard Reay, John Fogarty, Bill Saddler and Jack Woodger.

The local outfit does not lack experience either, with most of the members playing cricket in the bush.

The grand “old man” of the team is wicketkeeper Darrell Heffernan, who at age 75 is an inspiration to his younger colleagues.

Heffernan took the field for New England Colts, Tenterfield and the Australian Air Force during his competition days.

Former Tamworth and Gunnedah representative Jeff Perkins will play his maiden over-60s encounter and is looking forward to the challenge.

He’ll assume the all-important number three spot in the batting line-up.

Meanwhile, several players with Golden Oldies and Vintage Cricket International carnival experience are locked in as well, including Russ Harris, Barry Bird and Kev Pike.

Wauchope’s Harris and Port Macquarie’s Pike played in Stratford upon Avon in England last year, while Bird ventured to Queenstown, New Zealand.

Others who are taking part feature well-known Wauchope cricketers Greg Raffin and Don Berry, and Port Macquarie quartet Steve Maxwell, Brian Somers, Bryce Stewart and Al Deutschbein.

“Central Coast has been instrumental in getting over-60s cricket up and running in NSW,” Pike said.

“In fact, president of the NSW Over-60s Cricket Association Bill Saddler and secretary Kevin Finlay will play at Laurieton and canvas player support for upcoming interstate matches against Queensland and Queensland Country in Tenterfield in April.

“The Australian over 60’s program also includes an annual interstate carnival, with others planned for Canberra in November and Armidale in 2011.

“Although we play serious cricket, the normal rules are modified somewhat to ensure an entertaining and enjoyable match is played.”

All interested cricket enthusiasts are welcome to attend Laurieton Oval, from 11am, on Sunday, February 14, to cheer on the local over 60s.

The Golden Oldies were due to play at Wauchope last Sunday and has a representative games against Armidale booked for February 21 and another against Gloucester on March 7.

Anyone keen to join either the local Golden Oldies over-40s or over-60s for the occasional match should contact Kevin Pike. Phone him on 6583 7720 or email him at kevanddiane@bigpond.com