DRS reviews, accusations of bat tampering and late-night scuffles in bars may be just the start of the Ashes story this summer as England and Australia get set to do battle again in the first ever Over-70s series next week.

The likes of Kevin Pietersen, Alastair Cook and James Anderson have already retained the famous urn for England, but for Radlett Cricket Club’s Mike Dexter, cricket’s greatest contest begins next Thursday.

Dexter, 71, who has lived in Radlett for 68 years, has been called up to play for England’s Over-70s in the second game of the inaugural three-match Ashes Series in West Sussex.

The gutsy opener, who holds the record for the Hertfordshire’s most prolific senior batsman with 6,434 runs and an average of 36.7, goes into the match in excellent form having scored 246 runs already this season.

And while there may not be quite so much at stake when cricket’s oldest rivals take to the field at the Three Bridges Cricket Club next week, Dexter is certainly not expecting an easy ride.

“I’m sure there will be a bit of needle between the teams out there, I hope so,” he said.

“I would think they’re probably looking for some better fortune after what’s happened already this summer.

“I think in the build up to the match I’ll be feeling a bit nervous – it’s the Ashes after all – but once we get into the game I’m sure we’ll be alright.

“It’s just great to have the opportunity to contribute to winning these Over-70s Ashes for England.”

A fifty-seven year career at Radlett, which began in the club’s colts team, has seen Dexter play for all the club’s sides as well as holding various positions on the committee.

Dexter may have to swap the green fields of Radlett for international settings more often however, with England Over-70s considering a return trip to Australia, as well as potential match-up against South Africa.

The Over-70s Ashes series will be a 12-aside match with both teams able to choose 11 players to bat and field.

ECB Chief Executive David Collier said: “The ECB are happy to help establish this 70+ series versus Australia – good luck to the team and bring back those Ashes.”