FORMER England fast bowler Matthew Hoggard wants Ealing Cricket Club to make the most of the Ashes this summer – and he's adamant the benefits will be far-reaching.

Ealing offered their own slice of Ashes fever during the second Test at Lord’s by holding an ECB Club Open Day.

Hoggard, 36, part of England’s 2005 Ashes-winning team and still playing for Leicestershire, said: "When I was playing I wasn’t necessarily aware of the huge buzz, but holding a club open day is great for the social network.

“People come down and enjoy each other’s company. It is ideal for kids with the cricket on and space outside. You can make a real event of it and it is something that people of all ages can enjoy.”

Hoggard says the potential to earn extra revenue, combined with the possibility of introducing new children to the game of cricket, means Ealing will be on to a guaranteed win.

“Kids come down who haven’t played cricket before and potentially want to get involved and that is exactly what it is all about.

“The club can get a lot out of it, too. There is a focus on grass roots but you still need money to make the world go around and people spending money on the barbecue or in the bar is very important to the interests of the club.”

Hundreds of cricket clubs will #RISE for England by holding open days over the five Investec Ashes Series weekends. Find out about your local club and events at ecb.co.uk/clubopendays