THIS year is set to be a truly exciting year for everyone at The County Ground with a few big changes on the horizon.
After an incredible finish to the 2019 season, the First Team secured promotion to Division One of the County Championship which presents new challenges for the year ahead. The squad will be ready though, with a long and intense off-season training programme ahead of them.
The change of division in the County Championship, along with the shake-up of the Royal London Cup groups, sees five new opponents appear in Northamptonshire’s fixtures. Kent, Essex, Surrey, Hampshire and Somerset all play at The County Ground during the year, the first time those sides have visited Northamptonshire for a number of seasons.
A number of core players in the squad have already committed their futures to Northamptonshire, too. With Ricardo Vasconcelos, Alex Wakely and Ben Sanderson all extending their current deals while still in contract, a true sign of the optimism that surrounds the club and the positive atmosphere they’ve built.
There’s two new faces in the coaching staff too, which bring fresh eyes into the set-up with David Ripley announcing the appointments of John Sadler and Chris Liddle. The pair edged out more than 70 applicants for the roles and have already begun their positions. John Sadler joins the club from Leicestershire and will act as Assistant First Team Coach with a focus on working with the batting group. Chris Liddle has represented Gloucestershire and Sussex, and has now called time on his playing career to become Northamptonshire’s Bowling Coach.
Off the field, the club are looking to welcome a new generation of cricket fans by making cricket at The County Ground more accessible than ever. The new Junior Season Ticket has been expanded to allow anyone under 18 access to all 49 days of cricket for just £49, aiming to welcome as many young cricket fans across the county as possible. It’s not just about targeting younger fans either, the updated 7 for £99 T20 Season Ticket provides incredible value, saving £76 on gate prices and guaranteeing entry to every Blast game.
There’s plenty to look forward to at The County Ground in 2020 – be a part of it by calling 01604 514455 or visit www.nccc.co.uk