CLACTON are preparing to face one of their great ambassadors' when they go head-to-head with Vauxhall Mallards in the Gibbs Denley East Anglian Premier League.

The Seasiders will be up against former Sri Lankan Test star Indika de Saram, when the Norfolk side visit Tendring.

de Saram was a run-machine during his three years at Vista Road - and heavily involved in the club's coaching set-up - before last year's switch to Mallards.

Tomorrow's game will be the first time Clacton have competed against him and Seasiders team manager Gary Kirk told the Gazette: "It will be very strange to meet and play against Indi.

"Clacton became a home for him and I know he'll be apprehensive about returning.

"Indi is a very emotional person and someone everyone from the club respects.

"He was a fantastic ambassador for us, both on and off the field, and was adored by the young players he coached - a great character that's for sure."

de Saram - a big-hitting, right-handed batsman - is regarded as one of the Clacton's best-ever overseas players, having plundered 4,244 runs at an average of 76.

He played in four Test matches and 15 One-Day Internationals.

Kirk believes the reunion could be tense' - during the game at least - but is looking forward to a post-match drink with his former team-mate.

"Clacton were clearly disappointed with the way he left but we can understand why he went to Mallards," added the Seasiders chief.

"I'm sure we'll have a beer with him after the game.

"Certainly during the match things could be tense but our young side will be concentrating on their own performance and not worrying about anyone else."

Mallards are one of the league heavyweights and, once again, start as one of the favourites for title glory.

Seasiders skipper Martin Smith is relishing the test and said: "Mallards are tipped to win the league and it'll be interesting to lock horns with them as I believe we can be a match for any team this year."

Clacton will be hoping to build on their battling draw at Fakenham last Saturday, while Mallards drew with Great Witchingham.