BIG CROWD: Hundreds turned out for the World Cup trophy's visit
BIG CROWD: Hundreds turned out for the World Cup trophy's visit

A LARGE crowd turned out at Raby Castle for the visit of the ICC World Cup trophy and a special challenge match between a Durham CCC XI and a Sir Ian Botham XI.

The trophy was on display as part of a nationwide tour ahead of this summer's Cricket World Cup, with Durham CCC's Riverside ground at Chester-le-Street one of the host venues.

ON SHOW: The ICC Cricket World Cup at Raby Castle
ON SHOW: The ICC Cricket World Cup at Raby Castle

Many visitors took the chance to have their picture taken with the trophy and stayed on to watch the action.

IN ACTION: Raby Castle CC';s Dan Lee, who turned out for Sir Ian Botham's XI
IN ACTION: Raby Castle CC';s Dan Lee, who turned out for Sir Ian Botham's XI

The game followed the format of the ECB's new 100 ball competition, which will be introduced next season.

In the event, the Durham CCC XI eased to a comfortable victory.

Full report and lots more pictures in next week's Mercury.

BOWLED OVER: Barton CC's Andy Ryan in action for Sir Ian Botham's XI
BOWLED OVER: Barton CC's Andy Ryan in action for Sir Ian Botham's XI