HERIOT-WATT University has struck up a winning partnership Gala Cricket Club after sponsoring its two overseas players this season.

The university’s Scottish Borders Campus is providing accommodation for Australian pair Nick Giofre and Dan Fisher this summer in a partnership which sees Heriot-Watt supporting the local community sports club.

Both Aussies hail from Victoria, with 26-year-old Nick a wicketkeeper/batsman who, alongside 18-year-old all rounder Dan, are playing for Gala and helping to coach the club’s junior section.

Kenny Paterson, secretary at Gala CC said: “Heriot-Watt have shown our club great support through this partnership, which allows both Nick and Dan to stay and play cricket in Galashiels for the next four months.

“Both have been really impressed with the accommodation on offer by the university, and through this partnership, we hope Nick and Dan will have a positive impact on our club, both on and off the field.”

Thomas Day from Heriot-Watt University added: "We welcome both Nick and Dan to the Borders and wish them well.

"This partnership is in keeping with our established relationships supporting sport in the Borders through working with Scottish Rugby and the Sports Academy, alongside wider support of sport in Scotland through the presence of Oriam at our Edinburgh campus.

"We are always open and keen to work with groups looking for accommodation between June and September."

Meanwhile, Gala hosts international cricket for the first time in many years on Sunday, May 20 when Scotland A Ladies play Durham at Meigle Park.

Spectators are encouraged to come along to support Scotland for the match which starts at 12noon, with food and refreshments available through the afternoon.

Juniors from across the Borders are also invited to a free skills session being held at 2.30pm with coaches from Cricket Scotland and Gala.