HAMPSHIRE will take on Dorset at Dean Park next month as the hosts attempt to secure the future of the cricket ground.

Dorset will face their neighbours in a double-header of T20 matches on Thursday, May 8.

Bill Kempton, Dorset County Cricket Club chairman, said: “The lease is up on the ground at the end of the season and this game will show Dean Park is still an excellent cricket ground and that every effort must be made to ensure it is retained.”

The matches will also celebrate Hampshire’s 150-year anniversary and the visitors will use the games to provide their first team with match practice ahead of their T20 Blast campaign.

The County Championship side will bring a squad of 15 including club captain Jimmy Adams and England’s Michael Carberry.

Dorset captain Chris Park said: “The fact that Hampshire are neighbours should help generate tremendous interest in the match.

“We hope for some decent weather and for a few Dorset players to make a name for themselves.”

Advance tickets can be purchased at www.dorsetcricketboard.co.uk or at Bournemouth University’s sportBU reception at Talbot Campus.

Prices are £10 for adults and £5 for OAPs, students and under 16s.A family ticket for two adults and two children is £20.