IPSWICH TOWN: The Blues are looking to make a big hit in the Championship this season – and a pre-season cricket game could be the ideal way to prepare.

Roy Keane will be sending his players and staff to play Ipswich and East Suffolk at Chantry Park (London Road entrance) in a 20/20 contest on Friday July 23 with a 6.15pm start.

Proceeds from the match will go to one of Town’s recognised charities – Cancer Campaign in Suffolk – and a unique raffle is being organised with tickets available at the game – entrance free – and elsewhere.

The lucky winner will receive a special framed signed used shirt of cricket legend Shane Warne, kindly donated by Simon Girling, director of SEH French of Whitehouse Road, Ipswich.

“We’ve been fortunate to have such a wonderful prize and one that will treasured by whoever wins it,” said Louise Gregory, fundraising manager of Cancer Campaign in Suffolk.

Over 1,000 spectators attended cricket games played by the Blues at Chantry Park in 2007 and 2008, and a bigger audience is expected this time with the score currently standing at 1-1 and both Ipswich Town and Ipswich and East Suffolk hell bent on taking control of the trophy this time.

All Keane’s first team squad are expected to attend and the occasion is ideal for Blues fans to see the Portman Road stars at close quarters.

Raffle tickets will be available from the Cancer Campaign in Suffolk office at 39-41 Elm Street, Ipswich (01473 211884) from the latter part of this week.