AUSTRALIAN cricketers Mitchell Johnson, Josh Hazlewood and Ryan Harris took time out from their Ashes campaign to meet with servicemen and women.

Steven Caruana, from Ludgershall, was one of the lucky veterans able to meet the trio when they visited the defence medical rehabilitation centre at Headley Court.

He said: “Playing for the Help for Heroes Cricket Club offers not only the physical benefits of keeping fit and active, but also gives huge psychological and social benefits too.

"The players have built self-esteem and a sense of pride since being part of the club and most importantly, the Help for Heroes Cricket Club gives us the chance to be part of a close-knit group again, something many of us haven’t experienced since leaving the Forces.

“We’re all looking forward to the match in September and would encourage everyone to get along.”

They also met with members of the Help for Heroes Cricket Club who are playing in the Cricket for Heroes match at The Oval in September.