A CRICKET match is being arranged between a team under the auspices of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Vatican. It is to be played at the Kent CC ground in Canterbury on Friday 19 September. It is the first of its kind, a unique and exciting way to extend the degree of co-operation - or should that be competition? - between two branches of Christ's Church.

The Vatican is selecting a team from among its international seminarians, and so we aim to do the equivalent from among the British theological colleges and courses.

Do you want to play in the match? We're looking for a pool of ordinands with cricketing experience. It doesn't have to be county standard, but school or college experience would be good. It goes without saying that it would be good to have women playing in the match, and that's probably up to the Anglicans.

There will be a selection session before Petertide. Successful team members would be expected to be available for training sessions, possibly in July and certainly in early September (dates to be determined), and during the week of the match. Those who have secured a place in theological college or on a course that begins in the autumn are also eligible to apply. We're looking for funding to assist with travel, etc. (Any offers of financial assistance to editor@churchtimes.co.uk).

This is being seen by all concerned as a significant opportunity to demonstrate how easily ecclesiastical boundaries can be crossed - especially if you have some decent batsmen and -women in your team.

To be considered for this event, email cricket@churchtimes.co.uk. Please give full contact details, your theological college/course, and list any relevant cricketing or other sporting experience, as well as any particular strengths you have: spin bowler, batting, etc.