FORMER director of cricket and player Tom Moody returns to New Road for the first time next week since taking over as Sri Lanka head coach last June.

Moody will be joined by another old Worcestershire favourite, fast bowler Chaminda Vaas, as the tourists tackle England `A'.

Worcestershire stage the four-day match from Thursday until Sunday and Moody is really looking forward to his visit.

He said: "I was thrilled to look at the fixtures for this tour and see that we were to play in Worcester.

"Even though we won't be facing the Worcestershire team, it will be nice to be there and I'm obviously excited to be returning, having spent so many happy years there, firstly as a player and then in the capacity of director of cricket.

"I'm looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and catching up with old colleagues as well as some of the regular spectators I grew to know at New Road over the years."

Vaas spent part of last summer as one of the County's overseas players and was a popular character, both with team-mates and fans.

All children under the age of 16 will be granted free admission to the game next Saturday and Sunday.

Meanwhile, Worcestershire have teamed up with the University of Worcester to offer students a reduced £5 entry fee to Monday's C&G Trophy home match with Lancashire (10.45am).

They are also offering students lower rates for 2006 membership and anyone interested can call in at New Road.

University of Worcester student cards must be shown as proof of status.