England to take on the Rest of the World at Ab Initio International

England greats, Nick Matthew, James Willstrop, Daryl Selby and Laura Massaro will go head-to-head with the rest of the world at the inaugural Ab Initio International at St George’s Hill on Friday 24th November.

The star-studded opposition comprises World No.3 Mohamed Elshorbagy (Egypt), Australian No.1 Cameron Pilley, World Doubles champion Paul Coll (New Zealand) and Canadian No.1 Hollie Naughton.

Three-time World Champion Nick Matthew said,

“It’s going to be a great event, England have a strong team so it will be exciting to see how we fare against the rest of the world team."

Matthew added, "It will also be great preparation for the World Team Championships in Marseille where we’ll be aiming to defend our title. Having it broadcast by the BBC is also a bonus so that everyone can watch and enjoy.”

Broadcast live on BBC Sport from 6pm, the event will be staged at St George's state-of-the-art all-glass showcourt and will embrace new technology and innovation including three game format. For the first time in squash’s history, the event will be shown in 4K 360 VR on YouTube featuring replays, graphics and expert commentary from renowned squash commentators Joey Barrington and Simon Parke.

Danny Lee, Head Squash Coach at St George’s Hill said, “We’re thrilled to stage the Ab Initio International at St George’s Hill. This event brings together some formidable world-class talent and promises to be an unmissable night of action and drama.

“We’re excited to be using three game format allowing games to be played at a higher, explosive pace and treating fans to a more intense viewing experience. I urge everyone to watch on BBC Sport or You Tube.”

The event will see the following players go head-to-head:

- Daryl Selby v Cameron Pilley (Aus)

- Laura Massaro v Hollie Naughton (Can)

- James Willstrop v Paul Coll (Nzl)

- Nick Matthew v Mohamed Elshorbagy (Egy)

David Campion, England Squash National Coach said,

“We’re looking forward to a high-quality test match at St George’s Hill with a truly world-class field. We’re thrilled to be further bolstered by England No.1 Laura Massaro as our leading lady."

Campion added, "The event leads us nicely into the Men’s World Team Championships next week in Marseille, where we begin our title defence and as always, we are ambitious for success.”

Watch the event live on BBC Sport or YouTube from 6pm on Friday 24th November. Visit the official website and Twitter to find out more.