England's stars of the future visit Radlett next week, when an unprecedented summer programme of professional cricket starts at Cobden Hill on Tuesday (April 15).

The England Under-19 side plays a two-day match against a Middlesex XI and, on the following Friday, the two teams meet again in a 50-overs match.

There is free admission and parking for spectators at this lovely ground.

The England side could contain Steve Finn against his Middlesex colleagues if he is released from first-team training.

The tall Watford-based fast bowler is eligible for his third year at this level.

Middlesex will almost certainly be selecting the Radlett all-rounder Gareth Berg, who signed a one-year contract this season, for an appearance at his home club.

The most prestigious match since Allan Border's Australians played at Radlett 15 years ago takes place on August 5-7, when Ireland play the MCC in a three-dayer, the ground's maiden first-class match.

MCC Young Cricketers and Middlesex 2nd XI are scheduled to play a combined total of seven three-day championship games this summer, plus a couple of one-day games.

Hertfordshire play Norfolk in a Minor Counties Championship three-dayer on July 6-8.

Radlett's own campaign for the Home Counties League title under new captain Shane Burger does not start until May 10, when they host High Wycombe, but they have six warm-up matches arranged, starting with Farnham Royal at Cobden Hill on April 19. The club's four Hertfordshire League sides start on May 3.

Outdoor training begins at the ground on Tuesday evening, and any prospective non-overseas player wanting a no-obligation trial is welcome to ring Charles Randall on 07770 382127.