The Twenty20 Cup gives Hampshire Cricket record-breaking ticket sales

Crawley interviewed photo Vic Isaacs

The inaugural Twenty20 Cup match will be played at Hampshire's Rose Bowl on Friday 13th June between Hampshire Hawks and Sussex Sharks.

Hampshire Cricket has announced today that The Rose Bowl is already two-thirds full ahead of the unaugural Twenty20 Cup match on Friday 13th June.

The Twenty20 Cup, together with live performances from Mis-Teeq, D-Side and United Colours of Sound has provided the most popular package of cricket entertainment ever to be staged at The Rose Bowl.

Nick Pike, Hampshire Cricket's managing director said "People are realising that Friday is going to be a fantastic night of entertainment, so if you want to join the fun here, you should get your tickets quickly!"

On Thursday, "King of The Jungle" Phil Tufnell will encourage Hampshire office workers to leave their desks on time on Friday night and join in the party atmosphere at The Rose Bowl.

The Pride Side, the life-size cartoon characters designed to boost children's interest in cricket, have also confirmed they will be in Hampshire to enjoy the vast range of family activities which include a fun-fair, a speed bowling competition, a karaoke area and a bar-b-que zone.

Players arm band photo Vic Isaacs

The Rose Bowl will open from 2.30pm for families to enjoy the activities area, with the Twenty20 Cup match taking place between 5.30pm and 8.15pm. There will be no admittance to the ground after 7pm.

John Crawley, Hampshire Captain said "we can't wait to play in front of a packed crowd on Friday and I'm sure the atmosphere will be something really special. It will be a fantastic game and a great start to our Twenty20 Cup run".

TICKET INFORMATION Tel: 0870 243 0291 for tickets to the Twenty20 Cup - they are on sale today!. Tickets cost £15 for adults and £10 for under sixteens.

For further information please call: Andrea Wiggins, ECB/Hampshire Cricket, 07774 476400 Email: andrea.wiggins@ecb.co.uk