THEY have played 59 Test matches and more than 100 one-day internationals between them – putting fear into the hearts of the world’s best batsmen.

Now former England fast bowlers Phil DeFreitas and Dean Headley turn their attentions to York Cricket Club as the Clifton Parkers travel to Papplewick & Linby for the second round of the national knock-out on Sunday.

DeFreitas, 44, is vice-captain of the Nottinghamshire-based side, while Headley opens the bowling and will hurl his deliveries at Duncan Snell and Liam McKendry.

DeFreitas, known as Daffy, took 140 Test wickets and 115 ODI scalps in an international career which brought 44 Test caps and lasted nearly 11 years.

Headley, 40, only played 15 Test matches but took 60 wickets, including six in the second innings of England’s thrilling victory over the Australians in Melbourne in 1998.

For club secretary Nick Kay and the team, it is a chance to pit their wits against legendary players and he says York are determined to come out on top.

“This is the reason we enjoy the national knockout,” he said. “With two ex-Test match cricketers it is going to be a challenge. Although they have had their best days, they know how to bowl.

“I don’t think anyone who has played or watched cricket will not know who DeFreitas is. I grew up watching him on television. It is going to be a great day being on the same pitch and I hope we are able to get one over on him.”

But first York must concentrate on Solly Sports Yorkshire ECB County Premier League action, as they meet old rivals Barnsley at Shipton Road in what is an early season top of the table contest.

York are unbeaten in their first eight games while Barnsley are in second spot, 11 points behind the Clifton Parkers. Kay knows a win would put his side in a strong position.

“The league season is so early, in terms of results, that you can’t afford to slip up at this stage. Winning is a habit and you have got to keep that up,” he added.

“It is about momentum. They are second in the league and a win would stand us in good stead for Sunday. Barnsley look upon York as the biggest challenge in their season and we are the same. I can’t remember a game that hasn’t been close.

“There is a very fine margin between the two sides and they have improved this year. If we can get a win, it would put us in a very strong position in the league table.”

Neil Laidlaw, who has returned from Scotland duty, will be in the second team tomorrow, but is expected to feature against Papplewick in the absence of Australian Dan Wilson, who is ineligible for national knockout matches.