Australian legend Jeff Thomson is due to check on the progress of his son Matt who is playing as overseas amateur for Walsden this season.

Thomson senior is visiting England to attend a party thrown by England legend Ian Botham to celebrate becoming a Knight of the Realm.

His son opened his account for Walsden with a wicket against Royton last Saturday but struggled with his footing on the damp outfield and bowled ten no-balls.

Jeff — who with Dennis Lillee formed a fast bowling partnership which terrorised England — is expected to take in the Middleton match on Saturday. He was rated by many as the fastest bowler in the world and his frequent brushes with opposition and authority were legendary.

Play begins at 1.45pm on Saturday.

There is an Australian flavour to Walsden this weekend as Gary Toshack — who played as overseas amateur and captained Walsden in the 80s — brings a Queensland touring side to his old stomping ground on Monday.