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[VIDEOS] Surrey win County Championship 2024, securing third consecutive title

Updated County Championship Division One Table (22-04-2024)​


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Updated County Championship Division Two Table (22-04-2024)​

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County Championship Division One 2024, Toss update:

Surrey vs Hampshire, 17th Match, Day 1

Surrey have won the toss and have opted to field

Warwickshire vs Nottinghamshire, 18th Match, Day 1

Nottinghamshire have won the toss and have opted to bat

Worcestershire vs Somerset, 19th Match, Day 1

Worcestershire have won the toss and have opted to field

Durham vs Essex, 16th Match, Day 1

Durham have won the toss and have opted to bat
 
County Championship Division Two 2024, Toss update:

Gloucestershire vs Middlesex, 13th Match, Day 1

Gloucestershire have won the toss and have opted to bat

Leicestershire vs Northamptonshire, 14th Match, Day 1

Leicestershire have won the toss and have opted to field

Yorkshire vs Derbyshire, 15th Match, Day 1

Derbyshire have won the toss and have opted to field
 

Vitality County Championship - Division One Table (29-04-2024)​



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Vitality County Championship - Division Two Table (29-04-2024)​

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Ben Wells announces retirement from professional cricket​


Gloucestershire wicketkeeper-batter Ben Wells has announced his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 23.

Ben’s enforced retirement comes after he was unexpectedly diagnosed with a heart condition called Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) following a routine heart screening during pre-season. The condition means that Ben needs to avoid vigorous exercise and as such is unable to continue playing professional cricket. Ben will now be fitted with an implantable cardiac defibrillator to help manage the condition and allow him to live a normal life away from the field of play.

While everyone at Gloucestershire is devastated for Ben, a hugely talented cricketer with a bright future ahead, we are incredibly grateful to both the Club’s medical professionals and those externally who acted quickly to diagnose Ben’s heart condition at the earliest opportunity. The Club, alongside the PCA, are actively supporting Ben through what is undoubtedly a very difficult time for him and his family.

Having realised his talents as a cricketer at Monkton Combe School near Bath, where he finished as the school’s all-time top run-scorer, Ben progressed through the ranks at Somerset’s Academy before completing his Physics degree at the University of Exeter and then signing for Gloucestershire in July 2021. The Club then supported Ben while he completed his Business Analytics Masters alongside his cricket commitments the following year.

A regular for Bath CC, for whom he has played more than 100 1st XI matches, Ben experienced a breakout year for Gloucestershire in 2023 particularly due to his explosive performances in the T20 Vitality Blast. A standout performance came against Hampshire Hawks in Bristol, when he hit a blistering 43* from just 22 balls to guide Gloucestershire to an eight-wicket win.

A Right-handed bat, Ben made his debut for Gloucestershire in List A cricket against Lancashire in July 2021 before making his first appearance in the County Championship against Glamorgan just two months later.

Having made 25 professional appearances across all-formats for Gloucestershire, his last performance for the Club was arguably his best; a magnificent 108* as the Shire defeated Durham by seven-wickets on the road to the Metro Bank Cup semi-final.

Ben will undoubtedly be a regular visitor to the Seat Unique Stadium having formed close friendships with many players and staff during his time in Bristol. He is an incredibly well-liked member of the dressing room and evidently talented cricketer, and his presence will be sorely missed both on and off the field, this season and beyond.

Club Captain at Gloucestershire Cricket, Graeme van Buuren, said: “All of us players and staff are absolutely gutted for Wellsy, he was playing some of the best cricket of his career last season and we were all so excited to see what he could achieve in 2024.

“Ben has dedicated so much time and effort to cricket and even scored a century with a torn hamstring last season, so that speaks volumes of his character and talents as a cricketer.

“Most importantly, however, we will dearly miss Ben as one of our brothers within the dressing room - he is a fantastic human being and a really loved member of the squad. All of us are supporting Ben through what he is going through and will no doubt stay in touch.”

Head Coach, Mark Alleyne, added: “Ben being forced into retirement is the news every sportsperson dreads. He was in a great space with his cricket thanks to an insatiable practice ethic.

“I first met Ben in 2021 when I was assisting the coaching group and he was an exciting talent then. In the three years that have followed Ben managed to transform that early promise into a cricketer that would impact most teams. I was looking forward to seeing him do it for Gloucestershire.

“On reflection though and after feeling the huge waves of disappointment from his teammates and coaching staff; we can look back knowing that a possible catastrophe has been averted. It is that thought that offers us, and Ben of course, a margin of relief and I know he will move forward with dedication and make an impact in whatever he chooses to do next.

“Ben will be greatly missed by this group of players and cricket fans alike.”

Martin Cropper, Personal Development Manager at the PCA, commented: “The PCA is devastated to hear Ben’s news, however, we are grateful for the safeguards within the professional game that have enabled an early detection of his condition. Ben is a diligent individual who has worked tirelessly to create an opportunity in professional cricket and we are saddened that his career has been cut short.

“As a PCA member for life, we will continue to provide holistic wraparound support for Ben and help prepare him for whatever comes after his cricket career. He has shown great dedication to his dual career aspirations through his degree, masters and work experience. Player welfare is central to the PCA‘s agenda and a case like Ben’s is a further example of why we will continue to lobby stakeholders to put greater protections in place for our members.”

At the request of Ben and his family, the Club would like to ask that Ben’s privacy is respected while he comes to terms with the diagnosis and premature end to his professional career.

www.gloscricket.co.uk

Ben Wells announces retirement from professional cricket | News | Gloucestershire Cricket

www.gloscricket.co.uk www.gloscricket.co.uk
 
FearlessRoar said:

Ben Wells announces retirement from professional cricket​


Gloucestershire wicketkeeper-batter Ben Wells has announced his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 23.

Ben’s enforced retirement comes after he was unexpectedly diagnosed with a heart condition called Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) following a routine heart screening during pre-season. The condition means that Ben needs to avoid vigorous exercise and as such is unable to continue playing professional cricket. Ben will now be fitted with an implantable cardiac defibrillator to help manage the condition and allow him to live a normal life away from the field of play.

While everyone at Gloucestershire is devastated for Ben, a hugely talented cricketer with a bright future ahead, we are incredibly grateful to both the Club’s medical professionals and those externally who acted quickly to diagnose Ben’s heart condition at the earliest opportunity. The Club, alongside the PCA, are actively supporting Ben through what is undoubtedly a very difficult time for him and his family.

Having realised his talents as a cricketer at Monkton Combe School near Bath, where he finished as the school’s all-time top run-scorer, Ben progressed through the ranks at Somerset’s Academy before completing his Physics degree at the University of Exeter and then signing for Gloucestershire in July 2021. The Club then supported Ben while he completed his Business Analytics Masters alongside his cricket commitments the following year.

A regular for Bath CC, for whom he has played more than 100 1st XI matches, Ben experienced a breakout year for Gloucestershire in 2023 particularly due to his explosive performances in the T20 Vitality Blast. A standout performance came against Hampshire Hawks in Bristol, when he hit a blistering 43* from just 22 balls to guide Gloucestershire to an eight-wicket win.

A Right-handed bat, Ben made his debut for Gloucestershire in List A cricket against Lancashire in July 2021 before making his first appearance in the County Championship against Glamorgan just two months later.

Having made 25 professional appearances across all-formats for Gloucestershire, his last performance for the Club was arguably his best; a magnificent 108* as the Shire defeated Durham by seven-wickets on the road to the Metro Bank Cup semi-final.

Ben will undoubtedly be a regular visitor to the Seat Unique Stadium having formed close friendships with many players and staff during his time in Bristol. He is an incredibly well-liked member of the dressing room and evidently talented cricketer, and his presence will be sorely missed both on and off the field, this season and beyond.

Club Captain at Gloucestershire Cricket, Graeme van Buuren, said: “All of us players and staff are absolutely gutted for Wellsy, he was playing some of the best cricket of his career last season and we were all so excited to see what he could achieve in 2024.

“Ben has dedicated so much time and effort to cricket and even scored a century with a torn hamstring last season, so that speaks volumes of his character and talents as a cricketer.

“Most importantly, however, we will dearly miss Ben as one of our brothers within the dressing room - he is a fantastic human being and a really loved member of the squad. All of us are supporting Ben through what he is going through and will no doubt stay in touch.”

Head Coach, Mark Alleyne, added: “Ben being forced into retirement is the news every sportsperson dreads. He was in a great space with his cricket thanks to an insatiable practice ethic.

“I first met Ben in 2021 when I was assisting the coaching group and he was an exciting talent then. In the three years that have followed Ben managed to transform that early promise into a cricketer that would impact most teams. I was looking forward to seeing him do it for Gloucestershire.

“On reflection though and after feeling the huge waves of disappointment from his teammates and coaching staff; we can look back knowing that a possible catastrophe has been averted. It is that thought that offers us, and Ben of course, a margin of relief and I know he will move forward with dedication and make an impact in whatever he chooses to do next.

“Ben will be greatly missed by this group of players and cricket fans alike.”

Martin Cropper, Personal Development Manager at the PCA, commented: “The PCA is devastated to hear Ben’s news, however, we are grateful for the safeguards within the professional game that have enabled an early detection of his condition. Ben is a diligent individual who has worked tirelessly to create an opportunity in professional cricket and we are saddened that his career has been cut short.

“As a PCA member for life, we will continue to provide holistic wraparound support for Ben and help prepare him for whatever comes after his cricket career. He has shown great dedication to his dual career aspirations through his degree, masters and work experience. Player welfare is central to the PCA‘s agenda and a case like Ben’s is a further example of why we will continue to lobby stakeholders to put greater protections in place for our members.”

At the request of Ben and his family, the Club would like to ask that Ben’s privacy is respected while he comes to terms with the diagnosis and premature end to his professional career.

www.gloscricket.co.uk

Ben Wells announces retirement from professional cricket | News | Gloucestershire Cricket

www.gloscricket.co.uk www.gloscricket.co.uk
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Wishing the best to Ben Wells,He's been diagnosed with the same condition as James Taylor.
 
Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old

Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met. His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team.

Ashley Giles, Worcestershire’s Chief Executive Officer, shared his profound sadness, stating, “The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated.

“Josh was much more than a teammate; he was an integral part of our cricket family.

“We will all miss him terribly. All our love and prayers go out to Josh’s family and friends.”

During this profoundly difficult time, the Club is dedicated to supporting Josh’s family, friends, and colleagues. We are united in our grief and committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was.

Plans to pay tribute to Josh will be made in consultation with his family and will remain private at this time. The Club, along with Josh’s family, requests the respect of privacy as we mourn this immense loss. No further comments will not be provided during this sensitive period.

wccc.co.uk

Worcestershire County Cricket Club Announces the Heartbreaking Passing of Josh Baker - Worcestershire CCC

Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old. Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit...
wccc.co.uk wccc.co.uk
 
FearlessRoar said:
Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old

Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met. His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team.

Ashley Giles, Worcestershire’s Chief Executive Officer, shared his profound sadness, stating, “The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated.

“Josh was much more than a teammate; he was an integral part of our cricket family.

“We will all miss him terribly. All our love and prayers go out to Josh’s family and friends.”

During this profoundly difficult time, the Club is dedicated to supporting Josh’s family, friends, and colleagues. We are united in our grief and committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was.

Plans to pay tribute to Josh will be made in consultation with his family and will remain private at this time. The Club, along with Josh’s family, requests the respect of privacy as we mourn this immense loss. No further comments will not be provided during this sensitive period.

wccc.co.uk

Worcestershire County Cricket Club Announces the Heartbreaking Passing of Josh Baker - Worcestershire CCC

Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old. Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit...
wccc.co.uk wccc.co.uk
Click to expand...
https://twitter.com/x/status/1786058787486584984
 
FearlessRoar said:
Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old

Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met. His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team.

Ashley Giles, Worcestershire’s Chief Executive Officer, shared his profound sadness, stating, “The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated.

“Josh was much more than a teammate; he was an integral part of our cricket family.

“We will all miss him terribly. All our love and prayers go out to Josh’s family and friends.”

During this profoundly difficult time, the Club is dedicated to supporting Josh’s family, friends, and colleagues. We are united in our grief and committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was.

Plans to pay tribute to Josh will be made in consultation with his family and will remain private at this time. The Club, along with Josh’s family, requests the respect of privacy as we mourn this immense loss. No further comments will not be provided during this sensitive period.

wccc.co.uk

Worcestershire County Cricket Club Announces the Heartbreaking Passing of Josh Baker - Worcestershire CCC

Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old. Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit...
wccc.co.uk wccc.co.uk
Click to expand...
I am devasted at this news. I have known Josh since he was 8 years old from the county districts and county age groups. I am at a loss for words. He was lovely lad, and sooner or later destined to play for England. RIP
 
County Championship Division One 2024: TOSS UPDATE


Somerset vs Essex, 21st Match, Day 1

Somerset have won the toss and have opted to field


Lancashire vs Kent, 20th Match, Day 1

Lancashire have won the toss and have opted to field
 
County Championship Division Two 2024: TOSS UPDATE


Yorkshire vs Glamorgan, 18th Match, Day 1

Glamorgan have won the toss and have opted to bat


Middlesex vs Leicestershire, 17th Match, Day 1

START DELAYED DUE TO RAIN


Derbyshire vs Sussex, 16th Match, Day 1

Sussex have won the toss and have opted to field
 
Sean Jarvis, Leicestershire's chief executive, while speaking to a sports platform, has urged the game not to create the same divide between haves and have-nots that is currently afflicting English football:

"We want to be playing in the first division and reaching the quarter-finals of white-ball competitions, and that's where we believe we're headed. But if you compare us to, say, Nottinghamshire, who have a Hundred team, T20 Blast matches, and now women's cricket, when you don't get these things it does knock you back. That's where I get frustrated with the ECB."

"This could be our Premier League moment, if we're not careful."

"It's the top six or seven clubs that call the tune. They are effectively protected all the time by the finances they generate, and it's the others that are at the beck and call of the trapdoor."

"If we get the Hundred decision right, it could catapult UK cricket internationally. That's what happened with the Premier League when it overtook the likes of Serie A and the Bundesliga. But we've got to be strong and not simply allow the big boys to become bigger and even stronger."

"There's got to be a way that protects all clubs, and that includes the recreational game as well because it will be detrimental to places like Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Kent, and Northants in the long term if they're not given that opportunity to come and sit at that table."
 
FearlessRoar said:
Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old

Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met. His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team.

Ashley Giles, Worcestershire’s Chief Executive Officer, shared his profound sadness, stating, “The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated.

“Josh was much more than a teammate; he was an integral part of our cricket family.

“We will all miss him terribly. All our love and prayers go out to Josh’s family and friends.”

During this profoundly difficult time, the Club is dedicated to supporting Josh’s family, friends, and colleagues. We are united in our grief and committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was.

Plans to pay tribute to Josh will be made in consultation with his family and will remain private at this time. The Club, along with Josh’s family, requests the respect of privacy as we mourn this immense loss. No further comments will not be provided during this sensitive period.

wccc.co.uk

Worcestershire County Cricket Club Announces the Heartbreaking Passing of Josh Baker - Worcestershire CCC

Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old. Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit...
wccc.co.uk wccc.co.uk
Click to expand...

Worcestershire have lost 'brilliant guy and fantastic cricketer'​


Worcestershire have lost "a brilliant guy and a fantastic cricketer" with the death of Josh Baker, says his former coach Shaftab Khalid.

West Mercia Police are not investigating the death of the 20-year-old spinner on Thursday having deemed there are no suspicious circumstances.

Khalid, the England Under-19s spin coach, worked with the left-armer as he came through the youth ranks with Worcestershire and England.

The senior coroner for Worcestershire has confirmed that he has received a referral reporting Baker's death.

“At this moment no further information is available until further investigations have taken place,” he added.

Baker's death was announced just a day after he took three wickets in a county second XI fixture against Somerset on Wednesday.

"It was devastating, having worked with him since he was 16," Khalid told BBC Sport.

"Worcestershire lost not just a very talented cricketer but also an amazing and wonderful human being. He was such a nice, humble and sweet person."

Born in Redditch, Baker made his first-class debut in 2021 and represented England Under-19s before signing a three-year contract with his home county last year.

He played 47 games in all formats, taking 70 wickets, including two County Championship appearances this season, the last against Durham in April.

Khalid, a former Worcestershire off-spinner, added: "He was very young when he got his professional contract but was trying to help his mates, to guide them - in a way like a big brother - to help them get a professional contract.

"Being such a young kid, he was the heart and soul of the dressing room. He got along very well with all the coaches. He was a Worcestershire boy so playing for his county and then the England Under-19s, the dream was coming true.

"He was an all-format cricketer and had a massive future, but unfortunately you never know what's going to happen in life. It's a massive lesson for everyone. He will be truly missed."

www.bbc.com

Josh Baker death: Worcestershire have lost "brilliant guy and fantastic cricketer", says former coach

Worcestershire have lost "a brilliant guy and a fantastic cricketer" with the passing of Josh Baker, says his former coach Shaftab Khalid.
www.bbc.com
 

PCA warns county cricket schedule could result in ‘disaster’ without cuts​


The Professional Cricketers Association has called for a cut in domestic cricket, warning that fixture congestion is compromising performance and could even result in “disaster” on the roads as exhausted players bounce from match to match.

Figures released by the union after a country-wide study at the start of the current season show that 81% of men’s players have concerns about the physical strain of the schedule and the heightened risk of injury, while 62% expressed similar worries about the impact on mental health. Two-thirds of PCA members believe there is too much domestic cricket, with the union calling the schedule “unfit for purpose”.

“There is a large number of players who don’t think the schedule is conducive to high-level performance,” said Joe Root, the former England captain, speaking in support of the findings. “If we can make the players safer and the output of the games a higher quality, English cricket is going to be winning full stop.”

The squeeze on the T20 Blast appears of particular concern, with the PCA noting 55 back-to-back fixtures for teams in 2024, up from 34 last summer. On the back of this comes a call for minimum standards regarding the number of rest days, as well as travel and accommodation provisions to ease late-night turnarounds.

Gloucestershire provide one example in June, with evening Blast games in Cardiff and Bristol on a Thursday and Friday before travelling 270 miles to Scarborough for a four-day match against Yorkshire that starts at 11am on the Sunday.

“Back-to-back games have gone up considerably, and only looked at through a commercial lens,” said Daryl Mitchell, the PCA’s chief operating officer. “We understand that, but there needs to be a balance. There are reports of players who have got off the team bus, driven home and forgotten how they got there, almost on autopilot. We want to pre-empt it before anything disastrous happens.

“Our chief executive, Rob [Lynch] is worried about getting the call in the early hours of the morning when someone has driven off the M1. That scares us. [Our research shows] 76% of players have concerns about safety when travelling. I don’t think it needs to be a massive reduction [in games] but we need to create some space.”

There are 78 days of cricket scheduled for county first XIs this season (excluding white-ball knockout stages), with 14 Championship matches per side, 14 group games in the T20 Blast, and eight in the One Day Cup. (Should players feature in the Hundred, which has eight group games, they miss the latter).

This actually represents a drop from 2010, for example, when teams played 16 four-day matches, 16 Blast group games and 12 in the Pro40. One difference is the arrival of the Hundred, which has pushed the Blast out of the school holidays and seen counties respond with more Thursday and Friday fixtures to boost crowds.

Achieving a further reduction will be problematic, not least after a move to cut the Championship in 2022 was thwarted by county memberships. And this expression of angst from the PCA notably comes while the next County Partnership Agreement – including the split of revenues from the next broadcast deal – is being negotiated.

At the same time, the England and Wales Cricket Board is forging ahead with a plan to privatise teams in the Hundred, a seismic change to the fabric of the sport but one that is likely to appeal to a county network battling rising costs and saddled with around £200 million of debt collectively.

Enticed by a potential windfall – some projections say as much as £500m could be raised by this process – the 18 first-class counties and MCC have until 10 May to give a “non-binding” agreement to further explore this “direction of travel”.

Under the proposals, the eight host counties would be handed a majority 51% share of their Hundred side to keep or sell as they see fit, with the ECB selling the remaining 49%. The proceeds from the latter would be split between the counties and MCC, with 10% going to the recreational game.

Investors, expected to include those from the Indian Premier League, will be able to buy shares from both sides of the sale to claim a majority stake in a particular Hundred team. In turn they would receive up to 80% of revenues from ticket sales, sponsorship and the broadcast deal.

www.theguardian.com

PCA warns county cricket schedule could result in ‘disaster’ without cuts

Men’s players are worried about the physical and mental strain of the busy fixture list and there are also concerns about safety when travelling to matches
www.theguardian.com www.theguardian.com
 
It's been a decent contest. Bell Drummond is holding it together, riding his luck, and putting away bad balls. Also witnessed the sharp reflexes of Nathan Lyon.

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It has been a good contest so far, a roller coaster for Mickey Arthur and Shan Masood, who are yet to win a game. I guess due to The Hundred, the window of the County Championship has been affected. It was more fun and interesting when the County Championship was happening in the summer.

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Yorkshire opener Fin Bean is confident he can put bowlers in a spin now that his ability to play the turning ball has developed significantly over the last few months

Bean, aged 22, scored a fabulous career best 173 during the most recent Vitality County Championship draw against Glamorgan at Headingley, sharing a double century partnership with England legend Joe Root in the process.

It was an aggressive innings, compiled off 189 balls with 24 fours and five sixes.

And it came on the back of a winter’s work which included a 10-day England Lions led batting camp in Mumbai through January, focused on playing against spin.

“In the winter, one of my work-ons was boundary options against spin,” said the Studley Royal product. “The ECB put me on that trip to Mumbai, and that looks like it’s paid off. I’ve just got that more aggressive side, which is pleasing.”

Mind you, Bean’s desire to progress against spin dates back long before January.

You can go back to his first-class debut against Lancashire at Emirates Old Trafford in early September 2022 when he posted scores of 42 and 25 in a draw.

“I’ve not really experienced much rough before,” said Bean, earlier this week as he reflected on his innings against Glamorgan.

“On my debut, there was quite a bit at Old Trafford, and I was a bit taken aback. I didn’t really know what to do.

“Then I had a chat to Keaton Jennings after that game, and I’ve had two trips to India (including a Yorkshire batting camp the winter before last). I feel like I’ve come on leaps and bounds.

“The first time you’re exposed to it since, to perform like that is pretty pleasing.”

Sorry, Fin. Did we read that correct? A Lancashire captain helping a Yorkshire opener? Whatever next!

“He was very open, and he’s such a nice guy,” continued Bean, of his fellow left-hander Jennings, who is a notoriously good player of spin bowling.

“It was just (talking about) when he plays certain shots and to what fields. If they had a man at 45, he’d look to slog-sweep and things like. Reverse sweeps as well. It was more about scoring.

“I’ve actually got it written down on my phone.”

Bean has got plenty of batting experience and expertise at his disposal as he looks to develop his game, be it the likes of assistant coach Ali Maiden or second-team coach Tom Smith, who also opened the batting as a left-hander.

Then you have England stars Root and Harry Brook, who have been back with Yorkshire during the early stages of the season.

Asked if he has bent the ears of Root and Brook, Bean continued: “I use Lythy a lot and Mala, with them being left-handed. The game-plans are slightly different. It’s easier to talk to them about things.

“But just to hear how Rooty’s playing certain bowlers and his plans is good to learn from.

“He’s just so busy. You look up and he’s on 30 off 20 balls, and it’s remarkable how he goes about it. It’s definitely something to learn from, and he’s just so positive and aggressive.”

The Glamorgan 173 was Bean’s first hundred of the summer and the fourth of his 21-game first-class career.

“I feel like I’ve been playing well, just the scores haven’t come,” he added.“Thankfully it has done, and it settles things going forward for the rest of the season.

“One thing from last year, I didn’t get them big hundreds. Coming into this season, I wanted to get big hundreds – even double hundreds. You have plenty of bad days, so when you have the good days it’s about making them count and get as many as you can.”

yorkshireccc.com

Bean's winter work is rewarded - Yorkshire County Cricket Club

Yorkshire opener Fin Bean is confident he can put bowlers in a spin now that his ability to play the turning ball has developed significantly over the last few months.
yorkshireccc.com yorkshireccc.com
 
Indian seamer Siddarth Kaul has been signed by Northamptonshire for their next three County Championship fixtures, replacing Chris Tremain.
 

Worcestershire to wear Baker's number as tribute​


Josh Baker's Worcestershire team-mates will play with his squad number on their shirts for the rest of the season in tribute to the spin bowler.

The left-armer, who made his first-class debut for the county in 2021, died at the age of 20 earlier this month.

Baker's number 33 will be stamped underneath the club's crest on the front of Worcestershire shirts.

"Wearing Josh's number on their shirts is a way for the team, and all involved with Worcestershire cricket, to pay tribute to his memory and keep his spirit alive on the field," said club chief executive Ashley Giles.

"It is clear from the outpouring of love we've seen, following last week's awful news, that Josh touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him."

The number will be seen on Worcestershire shirts for the first time in their County Championship match against Kent, starting on Friday.

www.bbc.com

Worcestershire to honour Josh Baker with his number on shirts

Worcestershire will play with Josh Baker's squad number on their shirts for the remainder of the season.
www.bbc.com
 
County Championship Division One 2024: TOSS UPDATE


Kent vs Worcestershire, 23rd Match, Day 1

Worcester won the toss and chose to bat first


Nottinghamshire vs Lancashire, 24th Match, Day 1

Lancashire have won the toss and have opted to bat


Surrey vs Warwickshire, 25th Match, Day 1

Surrey have won the toss and have opted to field


Hampshire vs Durham, 22nd Match, Day 1

Hampshire have won the toss and have opted to bat first
 
County Championship Division Two 2024: TOSS UPDATE


Glamorgan vs Sussex, 19th Match, Day 1

Glamorgan have won the toss and have opted to field


Northamptonshire vs Gloucestershire, 20th Match, Day 1

Northamptonshire have won the toss and have opted to field
 
Grieving Worcestershire players were reportedly forced to take drug tests on their first day back at training on Tuesday after the death of their team-mate, Josh Baker

The cricketers complied but were distressed at the timing after Baker was found dead in his apartment on Thursday, May 2.

The UK Anti-Doping agency apologised but club officials were 'angry and dismayed' and the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) has expressed their 'shock'.

UKAD's spot-testing visit was scheduled but the club was not notified in advance, as is protocol.

Daily Mail
 

King Charles to become Lancashire cricket patron​


The King, who is also Duke of Lancaster, takes over from the late Queen Elizabeth II who held the role for 70 years.

A new portrait of the the King will be placed in the Pavilion Long Room at Old Trafford.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, we are honoured to welcome His Majesty The King as Lancashire Cricket’s new patron," Lancashire chairman Andy Anson said.

“We are extremely proud of the club’s connection with the Royal Family, and we’re delighted that His Majesty The King will continue the tradition of the Duke of Lancaster, being Lancashire Cricket’s patron.

“It would be an absolute pleasure to welcome His Majesty The King to Emirates Old Trafford, the home of Lancashire Cricket, if the opportunity arises.”

King Charles was also announced as patron of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) on Thursday, where he has been a member since 1975.

www.bbc.com

King Charles III to become Lancashire Cricket patron

King Charles is to become patron of Lancashire Cricket through his role as Duke of Lancaster.
www.bbc.com
 

Vitality County Championship - Division One Table​


1715625282495.png


Vitality County Championship - Division Two Table​

​
1715625352240.png
 
Two years into Mickey Arthur’s “Derbyshire project” they are firmly at the bottom of Div 2.
This is what he prioritised over being Pakistan coach…..nice guy but his record is really quite poor
 
gibsyhesperis said:
Two years into Mickey Arthur’s “Derbyshire project” they are firmly at the bottom of Div 2.
This is what he prioritised over being Pakistan coach…..nice guy but his record is really quite poor
Click to expand...
They have a really poor team even for div 2 standards
 

Why English and Welsh cricket stands at a crossroads​


On May 11, the second of a four-day county championship match unfolded in front of my eyes at the Utilita Bowl, Southampton. This is the home of Hampshire County Cricket Club. On a rare sunny day, there seemed to be around 600 other people watching, a majority in the members’ area.

Hampshire CCC is unusual in that it is one of three out of the 18 county cricket clubs in England and Wales that are not subject to member votes. It is owned by Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings, a private limited company which oversees sporting and leisure activities on the site. Its former chair, who was instrumental in saving the county from insolvency in 2001, owns 60 percent of the shares.

By coincidence, Hampshire’s opponents were Durham County Cricket Club, another county not subject to member votes. It is constituted as a Community Interest Company, a form of social enterprise. Northamptonshire County Cricket Club is the third one not to be subject to member votes, being constituted as a private company limited by guarantee.

The scene at Southampton would have been replicated at the other five county championship matches taking place on May 11. At the same time in Kolkata, the Knight Riders and the Mumbai Indians were preparing to play the 60th match of the 2024 Indian Premier League franchise competition. Average spectator attendance in the IPL is estimated to be 30,000. These two different models of promoting cricket may be about to coalesce, if proposed changes to the landscape in England and Wales come to fruition.

The changes center on The Hundred, a format of cricket introduced by the England and Wales Cricket Board in 2021. The two teams each play a single innings of 100 deliveries, divided into 20 overs of five deliveries, with two overs bowled from each end alternately. Each match is scheduled to last for two-and-a-half hours. Eight men’s teams and eight women’s teams comprise separate competitions with all matches played back-to-back on the same day at the same venue. The whole of August is allocated to The Hundred to the exclusion of other formats.

Ever since its inception, the tournament has been divisive on several levels. First, it has segregated the 18 counties into those who host The Hundred and those who do not. The eight participating counties are Glamorgan, Hampshire, Lancashire, Middlesex, Nottinghamshire, Surrey, Warwickshire and Yorkshire. However, the teams do not carry the county names, since the concept was to create city-based teams using existing county facilities. Agreement to progress with the tournament depended upon the support of excluded counties. This was achieved by the ECB’s offer to pay each county £1.3 million ($1.6 million) for their backing.

At a second level, there are differing opinions about the opportunity cost of this funding. The ECB receives around 75 percent of its income from the sale of broadcasting rights, a substantial part of which relates to Test-match cricket. Critics argue that using this money to support and develop a format which represents an existential threat to Test cricket is willful. They argue that the funds should be deployed in producing players for the longer rather than shorter formats.

On a third level, it is argued that the focus on eight counties, instead of 18, will hasten the demise of some of the latter, several of whom are in parlous financial circumstances. It is understood that, in the last two years, five counties have received financial help from the ECB. Overall debt levels in county cricket may be in the order of £200 million, some of this being incurred in stadium development designed to host international matches. In addition, operational costs have increased sharply in recent years.

It is in this context that the ECB’s current proposal to sell off 49 percent of equity in The Hundred has great attraction. The balance of 51 percent would be owned by the host county, which can decide to retain it all or sell part or all of it. The proceeds of the 49 percent are to be distributed to counties according to an undisclosed formula. The ECB requested that counties agreed to a “direction of travel” by May 10.

A divergence of opinion has emerged amongst the counties about the proposed model for distributing the spoils, split broadly between those who host The Hundred and those who do not. Needless to say, both sides appear to want more. In terms of numbers, some reports assert that the ECB’s sale of 49 percent equity might raise some $507 million (£400 million) for distribution, enough to salve the cash problems of a few counties. It is understandable that the non-hosting counties fear that they could get sold down the river.

There is already a fear that they are becoming marginalized by not being a host of The Hundred format. If the money raised by the ECB falls well short of the $507 million, then their financial problems may not be solved and their marginalization exacerbated. There are also legitimate concerns over governance and scheduling issues once private owners become involved. At this stage, the nature of private investors is unknown. It would be no surprise if Indian franchise owners show interest. However, it is reasonable to assume that they would not be content with either a minority stake or minority voice.

Cricket in England and Wales is at a watershed moment, caught in a maze of alternative possibilities, each one of which has unknown consequences. The ECB, under previous management, was the architect of this moment, through its introduction of The Hundred, which is contracted to run until 2028. In a twist of fate, it is now regarded as a medium for escape from impecunity. The alternative to equity sale is to do nothing and watch the system crumble. Equity sale will be tantamount to privatizing a part of that system. It was difficult to escape the feeling at Southampton that I was watching one part of that system which is heading for trauma.

 
9 games in county championship div 1 and 2 are going to start today. Fixtures coming up will be:

County Championship Division Two 2024

Leicestershire vs Gloucestershire, 23rd Match, Day 1
Glamorgan vs Middlesex, 22nd Match, Day 1
Derbyshire vs Northamptonshire, 21st Match, Day 1
Sussex vs Yorkshire, 24th Match, Day 1

County Championship Division One 2024

Somerset vs Kent, 29th Match, Day 1
Nottinghamshire vs Hampshire, 28th Match, Day 1
Lancashire vs Durham, 27th Match, Day 1
Essex vs Warwickshire, 26th Match, Day 1
Surrey vs Worcestershire, 30th Match, Day 1
 

County Championship Division One 2024​



Leicestershire vs Gloucestershire, 23rd Match, Day 1

Leicestershire won the toss and opt to bowl first


Glamorgan vs Middlesex, 22nd Match, Day 1

Middlesex won the toss and opt to bowl first


Derbyshire vs Northamptonshire, 21st Match, Day 1

Northamptonshire won the toss and opt to bat first


Sussex vs Yorkshire, 24th Match, Day 1

Yorkshire won the toss and opt to bowl first

​

County Championship Division One 2024​


Somerset vs Kent, 29th Match, Day 1

Kent won the toss and opt to bowl first


Nottinghamshire vs Hampshire, 28th Match, Day 1

Hampshire won the toss and opt to bowl first


Lancashire vs Durham, 27th Match, Day 1

Durham won the toss and opt to bowl first


Essex vs Warwickshire, 26th Match, Day 1

Warwickshire won the toss and opt to bat first


Surrey vs Worcestershire, 30th Match, Day 1

Worcestershire won the toss and opt to bowl first
 
The Yorkshire County Cricket Club is delighted to announce the overseas signing of Sri Lankan international fast bowler Vishwa Fernando for the next three Vitality County Championship matches.

Left-armer Fernando, aged 32, returns to county cricket having played for Durham at the back end of last season, taking seven wickets in two matches for the Division Two champions.

The new ball quick has met up with the Yorkshire playing squad, who are currently taking on Sussex at Hove, and will also feature in matches against Northamptonshire at Wantage Road, Gloucestershire at Scarborough and Derbyshire at Chesterfield, the latter two late next month.​

YCCC
 

Vitality County Championship - Division One Table​

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1716226675995.png

Vitality County Championship - Division Two Table​

​
1716226743220.png
 

MATT CARTER DEPARTS NOTTS​


Off-spinner Matt Carter has left Nottinghamshire CCC by mutual agreement.

We would like to thank Matt for his nine years of service and wish him all the best for the future.

NCCC News : MATT CARTER DEPARTS NOTTS

Trent Bridge home of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club
www.trentbridge.co.uk www.trentbridge.co.uk
 
County game day today. Here is the list of fixtures starting today in Divisions 1 and 2:


County Championship Division One 2024

Hampshire vs Surrey, 32nd Match

Kent vs Essex, 33rd Match

Lancashire vs Warwickshire, 34th Match

Worcestershire vs Nottinghamshire, 35th Match

Durham vs Somerset, 31st Match

County Championship Division Two 2024

Gloucestershire vs Derbyshire, 25th Match

Leicestershire vs Glamorgan, 26th Match

Middlesex vs Sussex, 27th Match

Northamptonshire vs Yorkshire, 28th Match
 
County Championship Division One 2024: TOSS UPDATE


Hampshire vs Surrey, 32nd Match, Day 1

Surrey have won the toss and have opted to bat


Kent vs Essex, 33rd Match, Day 1

Essex have won the toss and have opted to bat


Lancashire vs Warwickshire, 34th Match, Day 1

Day 1: Toss delayed due to rain


Worcestershire vs Nottinghamshire, 35th Match, Day 1

Day 1: Toss delayed due to rain


Durham vs Somerset, 31st Match, Day 1

Durham have won the toss and have opted to bowl first
 
County Championship Division Two 2024: TOSS UPDATE


Gloucestershire vs Derbyshire, 25th Match, Day 1

Derbyshire won the toss and opted to bat first


Leicestershire vs Glamorgan, 26th Match, Day 1

Leicestershire won the toss and opted to bowl first


Middlesex vs Sussex, 27th Match, Day 1

Middlesex won the toss and opted to bowl first


Northamptonshire vs Yorkshire, 28th Match, Day 1

Northamptonshire won the toss and opted to bowl first
 

County Championship Division ONE - DAY TWO Update (25-05-2024)​


YXZolwf.png
 

County Championship Division TWO - DAY TWO Update (25-05-2024)​

aJoFFoH.png
 

'It's one of a kind in the UK': Lancashire Cricket's second home development​


Cricket fans have been given an update on the latest construction work taking place on Lancashire's Farington cricket facility.

County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, leader of Lancashire County Council, provided an update on the project last week at Lancashire County Cricket Club's Emirates Old Trafford home ground while speaking to former Lancashire CCC player, Warren Hegg.

She was joined by Daniel Gidney, chief executive of Lancashire County Cricket Club, and Jen Barden, executive director of Lancashire Cricket Foundation.

Work on the site at Farington in central Lancashire is said to be 'progressing well'.

The project will bring a 5,000-capacity stadium to the site in Stanifield Lane, Farington, to host county matches.

It will have two full-sized pitches, a pavilion, practice nets and a Women's Centre of Excellence, to continue to grow the women's game and nurture the next generation of talent across Lancashire.

The ground will take pressure off Old Trafford, which is juggling county and international cricket, plus the Manchester 100 ball league team, by hosting T20 and first-class cricket through the season.

Cllr Williamson said: "This pioneering facility is one of a kind in the UK.

"We're excited by this dynamic project, which will transform the sport here in Lancashire.

"I'm especially happy that this will be a North West Centre of Excellence for women's cricket, paving the way for the next generation of top cricketers."

Despite challenging weather conditions, the major earthworks programmes are well underway, drainage systems have been established and the access road to the future pavilion building and the outline of the professional county pitch are now clearly visible.

This is an innovative partnership between Lancashire County Council and Lancashire Cricket to deliver high-quality professional facilities for the club in Lancashire and an asset for the local community and wider county.

The England and Wales Cricket Board provided £1.6 million in funding towards the development of the new facility.

The pioneering development will see first-class men's and women's cricket brought to a permanent new second home.

When completed, natural amphitheatres will provide up to 5,000 spectators the opportunity to watch games.

The site will serve as a North West Centre of Excellence for the women's game, and provide a stable pathway for the next generation of men's and women's and youth players.

Emirates Old Trafford will continue to host major matches, and the new facility will become Lancashire Cricket’s second ground.

The development will provide two pitches, one professional and one for the community, providing significant opportunities for local and community cricket to take place in the heart of Lancashire.

The project will importantly create jobs for local people during construction and once the facility is up and running and provide an economic boost through business supply chains.

There will also be a range of broader community benefits and sporting, health and wellbeing opportunities.

uk.sports.yahoo.com

'It's one of a kind in the UK': Lancashire Cricket's second home development

Cricket fans have been given an update on the latest construction work taking place on Lancashire's Farington cricket facility
uk.sports.yahoo.com uk.sports.yahoo.com
 

Vitality County Championship - Division One Table​

​

1716831727946.png

Vitality County Championship - Division Two Table​

​

1716831787547.png
 
Sussex Cricket is delighted to announce the signing of left-arm seamer, Jack Campbell, on a short-term deal until the end of the 2024 season

Campbell, formerly of Hampshire and Durham, has been trialing with Sussex over the winter and recently impressed whilst featuring in 2nd XI fixtures for the Club.

The 24 year old has made 20 professional appearances across all three formats of the game, taking 25 wickets.

On the signing, Sussex Head Coach, Paul Farbrace said: "Jack has been working with us throughout the winter months and I am delighted he has signed a contract with us until the end of the season."

Jack Campbell, added: "I am delighted to have signed a contract with Sussex and can't wait to see what the next few months bring and I am really looking forward to playing a part in helping to push for promotion and to win trophies."

Sussex sign Jack Campbell | Sussex Cricket

Sussex Sign Seamer Jack CampbellSussex Cricket is delighted to announce the signing of left-arm seamer, Jack Campbell, on a short-term deal until the end of the 2024 season. Campbell, formerly of Hampshire and Durham, has been trialing with Sussex over the winter and recently impressed whilst...
sussexcricket.co.uk sussexcricket.co.uk
 

County Championship Division Two 2024: TOSS UPDATE​


Glamorgan vs Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire won the toss and chose to bat first


Middlesex vs Derbyshire

Middlesex won the toss and chose to bat first


Sussex vs Leicestershire

Leicestershire won the toss and chose to bowl first


Yorkshire vs Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire won the toss and chose to bowl first
 

County Championship Division One 2024: TOSS UPDATE​


Kent vs Lancashire​

Lancashire won the toss and chose to bowl first

Nottinghamshire vs Somerset​

Nottinghamshire won the toss and chose to bat first

Warwickshire vs Hampshire​

Hampshire won the toss and chose to bat first

Worcestershire vs Surrey​

Worcestershire won the toss and chose to bowl first

Essex vs Durham​

Durham won the toss and chose to bat first
 
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