NEWPORT Gwent Dragons will be gunning for a hat-trick of successes when they take on Usk in the annual Twenty20 charity cricket match next month.

The Rodney Parade side will return to Usk on Sunday, July 19 with the match starting at 3pm after a junior match kicks off events at 1pm.

Several members of the Dragons' team have already donned their whites this summer with South African lock Rynard Landman making an appearance for Clwb Criced in the Cardiff midweek league while full-back Rhys Jones turned out for Blaina last weekend.

Pat Leach has exceptional cricketing pedigree having played for Wales Minor Counties and the MCC and the centre is relishing a return to the middle.

"Both of the previous matches have gone down to the last ball and have certainly been played in the right spirit," he said.

"The fact the Dragons have won the last two games is certainly a testament to the game management skills of the Usk captain!

"Once again they are two great causes that we are playing for so I hope that our fans come along to support us, as it will be a fun day for all who attend."

The day will raise money for St David's Hospice and the Laurence-Moon-Bardet-Biedl Society with admission £3 for adults and £1 for children.

Usk CC chairman Mike Kear said: "We are proud and privileged to welcome the Dragons back to our ground.

"This fixture has become one to look forward too for our players and supporters, it's a great bit of fun which raises money for two charities very close to the club's heart.

"The crowds have steadily increased over the years and we're hoping that word has spread and people turn out to help raise some much needed funds – over £6,000 has been raised from the last two games.

"We've had a tip off that Rynard Landman has strengthened their cricketing ability and with the likes of Pat Leach and Jason Tovey, who last year hit one of the biggest sixes witnessed on the ground, our lads are really going to have to up their game!"

The event's commercial partner is iStadia Solutions www.istadiasolutions.com and main sponsor Premier Forest Products www.premierforest.co.uk .