Lara's return to Caribbean cricket

Cricket fans in the Caribbean can expect a treat in the coming months, as Brian Lara and Ian Botham are both expected to take to the field for a charity match in the lead up to the Caribbean Premier League final in August.

'Beefy's Bash', an all-star charity T20 game involving Botham, Lara and television personality Piers Morgan, is set to take place in St.Kitts on August 12 and will bring together a host of celebrities, cricketing legends and current stars.

"I've always believed in the importance of giving back to the Caribbean, and this match will be a great way to do that," Lara said. "It's going to be fun to play with and against some old friends and reignite some old rivalries, and I've already been contacted by plenty of fast bowlers keen to have a bowl at Piers."

Morgan, who famously survived an over against Brett Lee in December, said that he had already called the former Australia seamer to join in, though this time, he took the time and effort to make sure that he would not be on the receiving end of Lee's deliveries.

"As soon as I got the call from Beefy, I knew this was something I wanted to be involved in," Morgan said. "I'm a huge fan of cricket and I love the Caribbean, so a chance to play in this special game and get involved with the biggest party in sport was too good an opportunity to miss. I've already asked Brett Lee to join in, but this time playing with me - not breaking my ribs!"