WHILE the international cricketers of South Africa sweat it out in Australia and England complete their three-match Test series in India, the hardy cricketers of Bolton Road and Brooksbottoms will be competing for the 39th consecutive year in the less hospitable climes of Summerseat.

Weather forecasters are predicting an icy Boxing Day morning, with a chance of snow to add to the occasion as the players prepare for their traditional midwinter test match.

Brooksbottoms' Jim Hoyle, a stalwart of many of these encounters, remembers in past years battling against fog and frost, and in recent times monsoon-like conditions.

"It's amazing that players queue up to play in those sorts of conditions, but they do," he said.

"And we now have the situation where sons of the earlier pioneers are eagerly following in their father's footsteps."

For the 40th anniversary the clubs are hoping to play on the new Bolton Road Sports Club ground and already plans are afoot to hold a celebratory dinner next November to commemorate this remarkable cricket milestone.

The original rules of the fixture are still in place and these declare the match will begin at 11pm and each side will bowl 20 overs with no bowler allowed to bowl more than two overs.

As always, the famous Brox mince pies and seasonal refreshments are available throughout the match and hibernating cricket lovers can look forward to a keenly fought match for the honour of capturing the Brian Statham Boxing Day Cup.

After a lapse of several years, Bolton Road are the current holders, but the villagers enjoyed a successful summer and will be keen to add this magnificent silverware to their trophy cabinet.