CK10v3 - Rookie Season READY OR NOT? SIX YOUNG STARS TO TRACK - Professional Cricketers' Association
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IN THIS ISSUE
Graham Gooch / Natalie Sciver
Alex Tudor / Zafar Ansari
PLUS
Kent’s Squad Of ‘95
Rookie Season
READY OR NOT?
SIX YOUNG STARS TO TRACK
CK10v3
T H E U LT I M A T E B A T T I N G
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Welcome
Beyond the Boundaries is published by
the Professional Cricketers’ Association,
however the views expressed in
contributed articles are not necessarily
those of the PCA, its members, officers,
employees or group companies.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
IAN THOMAS
ian.thomas@thepca.co.uk
EDITOR
ANDY AFFORD
andy@stencil-agency.co.uk
DEPUTY EDITOR
MARK WALLACE
mark.wallace@thepca.co.uk Inside this issue of the players’ membership magazine,
PCA CO-ORDINATOR
read about how the Association is supporting future,
ALI PROSSER present and past cricketers.
ali.prosser@thepca.co.uk
ART DIRECTOR
SAM BOWLES
sam@stencil-agency.co.uk It’s looking like yet another summer of a consequence, present and protect the
CONTRIBUTORS
real importance for the game as our sport views and interests of the players with
TOM BIRTWISTLE and its players face ever more pressure an even firmer grasp of our role. Keeping
NICK DENNING to maintain its standing and exact value. things simple, we’ve distilled that feedback
VICKY ELWICK
RYAN HEATH
We are forever defining and redefining its to four core values. Communications
RICH HUDSON position as the landscape shifts. It is set Manager Luke Reynolds has written about
TOM JONES within a global cricketing context that the process, starting on page 48.
CHARLIE MULRAINE
DAISY NEWMAN
shows no sign of standing still. More widely, in my capacity as PCA
LUKE REYNOLDS As an organisation we are no different. Director of Development & Welfare, I’d
KENNETH SHENTON As the players’ union body, like the game like to point you in the direction of the work
AUSTEN TURNER
LYNSEY WILLIAMS
itself, we share a collective duty to remain being done at Academy level in promoting
MATT WOOD relevant. If necessary, we may even have positive mental health. It’s a first for us and
LAURA WYBROW to go as far as revaluating our position to runs in support of work we already do in
PHOTOGRAPHY
the point of reinvention - as the game itself the field. It highlights the PCA’s fierce and
GETTY IMAGES continues to do. ongoing commitment to protecting and
PORTRAITCOLLECTIVE Informed by your responses to what looking after professional players of all
DESIGN
has amounted to an exhaustive process of standing and length of service.
surveys and forums, you’ll see that we’ve We hope you enjoy Issue No.22 of
reshaped how your representative body Beyond the Boundaries. It goes without
presents itself, visually and by word. saying that we value your feedback.
PCA LEAD SPONSORS:
To do that most successfully we felt we
needed to seek an independent partner to
help us understand and reflect better what
the sport’s stakeholders and the wider
membership thought of us and what we IAN THOMAS
did. The hope was that we’d then better PCA Director of
understand this as employees and, as Development & Welfare
Opening Up
Opening Up On The Cover
–– ––
P7 P20
PCA CHAIRMAN DARYL MITCHELL SPEAKING PERSONALLY
On a winter spent Alex Tudor’s life lessons
shaping the game to his younger self
P14 P24
CATCHING UP WITH... NATALIE SCIVER
Kent’s Sunday League- BtB catches up with the England
winning side of 1996 allrounder during training
P16 P28
A WORD IN YOUR EAR COVER STORY: FIRST SEASON SPECIAL
Advice from our county Rookies, Rookie Camp and
pro who cannot be named freshman-year flyers
4 / THEPCA.CO.UK
Opening Up
P42
GRAHAM GOOCH
New PCA President
holds court at Lord’s
Features Education & Wellbeing
–– ––
P35 P50
100 PER CENT ATTENDANCE GATEFOLD: HOME ADVANTAGE
Stories from inside the dressing room When finding that second career might
from those that have heard it all be closer to hand than you think
P40 P63
VIKRAM SOLANKI SUNSHINE ON A RAINY DAY
Former England one-day Why early planning makes
wizard on the world game for a brighter financial future
P46 P70
JAMES PYEMONT LOVE LIFE
Former chief of police takes Michael Carberry on the
influential role at cricket’s HQ joys of pencil and paper
THEPCA.CO.UK / 5
Opening Up
THREE POINT KIT AND KABOODLE
TURN: PICKING Former Worcestershire man Shaftab Ahmad Khalid launched cricket brand SSK Cricket in London
recently. The family-run business designs, manufacturers and distributes cricket apparel and
FOR ENGLAND equipment supported by, what the former England A offspinner describes as ‘unique and fearless
designs’, fired by his own ‘love and dedication’ to the game. “Having played cricket for several
England announce a new initiative in years, my vision was to create a brand that is unique, affordable and caters to the needs of all
cricketers,” said the 35-year-old entrepreneur. “I would like to thank my family and friends for their
the selection of the next generation of continuing support, especially my wife for the ideas and creativity to help launch the SSK brand.”
internationals. Here’s the breakdown. With the SSK brand looking to grow in 2018, there is opportunity for selective sponsorship deals.
––
POINT ONE sskcricket.com #Team SSK sskcricketuk@gmail.com
The introduction of a new scouting
system is to be phased in as a
replacement for a designated selection
panel. Chief national selector
(chairman of selectors in old money)
James Whitaker left his post at the
end of March. Making way for the
appointment of a new lead selector,
with decision-making informed by a
network of scouts.
POINT TWO
Specialist scouts are already in role
within England’s player pathway
programme. They include former
England players Geoff Arnold,
Jack Birkenshaw, Bob Cottam,
John Emburey and Mike Hendrick.
AROUND 13,000 FT
In dialogue: England supremo Andrew
Strauss in conversation with Middlesex’s
Reach For The Sky
Mid November saw former England men Dean Headley, Simon Jones and
Dawid Malan.
Darren Maddy skydive to raise money for the PCA Benevolent Fund Legacy Year
Appeal. “It was a bit surreal, “ said 48-year-old former fast bowler Headley. “It
POINT THREE was like looking down at a great big map.”
Focus is said to now fall on the Rescheduling out of summer meant a bitterly cold 120mph descent. With the
identification of the specific players experience of jumping out of a perfectly good plane described as a calming
with the talents and skillsets experience rather than the nerve-frazzling adrenaline rush of perception and
identified as being needed by the something Headley would recommend to others. “It’s an easy thing to do, “ said
national team when competing the veteran of 15 Tests. “It’s something to try as an individual fundraiser, or as a
abroad. group. Or maybe even as a pre-season team building activity?”
6 / THEPCA.CO.UK
Opening Up
The new T20 competition is the focus for this issue’s column from the
chairman. He writes that tapping into players’ experiences from around
the world will be vital in making it the very-best league it can be.
It is rarely not an interesting time for the game to see full grounds is imperative and something
these days and this winter has proven no exception the players regard as integral to the positive
to that rule. Taking up a good proportion of the presentation of the new tournament when it
organisation’s time has been looking at how arrives.
the sport structures the new T20 competition, I know that the players’ input has been well
calendared to be in place in 2020. As chairman received by the ECB. And with domestic cricket
I have been part of various working parties, having sat behind a paywall since 2005, breaking
assessing how the event might look, how it will be cover for the first time - exposing the game to
governed and structured and how it will present a new generation of fans - is going to be key in
itself as a spectacle to rival Australia’s Big Bash converting interested viewers into passionate
and India’s mighty IPL. matchday attendees and advocates.
Particularly enlightening and enjoyable has been With new competition revenue comes fresh
a series of focus groups, run to gain insight from opportunities for the players and associated
those that play the game all across the cricketing challenges to be met by the PCA. Seeing our
world. One featuring Essex’s Ryan ten Doeschate, members rightly and properly rewarded for
Yorkshire’s Tim Bresnan and Nottinghamshire’s playing their part in making the competition
Stuart Broad proving particularly vital. All three the success everyone wants it to be is important.
of these great players have accessed ‘best practice’ Adding funds should also mean that the PCA
and all know their own mind. It has been useful is able to deliver even higher levels of member
to gain their feedback on subjects ranging from benefits, services, support and insurance. A game-
competition structure to how mothers were wide win-win situation.
successfully targeted for attendance at games in
Australia. From the importance of offering up a
game-a-day TV schedule, to how the sport looks DARYL MITCHELL
in stadia and on air. Above all of this, a desire PCA Chairman
THEPCA.CO.UK / 7
Opening Up
COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY PERSISTENCE PAYS OFF FOR CLARK
Colchester-born Matt Hunn chose to keep things local Former Leicestershire man, Steve Clark, has started a new position as a
for his winter downtime. “In-between working hard on Project Management Consultant with P2 Consulting, the world’s leading
my game, I was offered the opportunity to work with the project and programme management company.
commercial team at Kent.” said the 24-year-old seam Previously working in the field of derivative sales in the City of London, Clark
bowler. “This was a highly-rewarding experience that used the PCA education funding scheme to become Prince 2 qualified. He
gave me an insight into the business side of sport.” then actively networked on LinkedIn, speaking and meeting with contacts for
industry advice before an invitation to formal interview. A great example of
what can be achieved with a focused plan and perseverance.
LEEDS
Linley Giving
It The Beans
Trained barista Tim Linley is about to
open the doors on his own coffee shop
in Headingley, Leeds. The former
Surrey seamer retired due to injury at
the end of the 2015 season and after
months of refit and refurbishment
opens Coffee On The Crescent in the
Hyde Park area of the city in mid April.
“If you have got a passion and you
want to explore that avenue then the
help is there from the PCA. You just
have to ask,” said the winner of a PCA
Scholarship Award in 2017.
––
@CoffeeOnTheCrescentLeeds
Number 2, The Crescent,
Leeds LS6 2NW
Tim Linley photo: Jemma Mickleburgh
LONDON Arun Harinath and
Wide World Of Sport
Matt Dunn enjoy a
laugh during a match
Surrey top-order man Arun Harinath has kept himself busy over the between Sussex and
Surrey at Hove.
winter with a work placement at a top City marketing agency. “I’ve been
with CSM Sport & Entertainment, said the 30-year-old lefthander. “It
involved working alongside a team dealing with the management and
promotion of high profile people in the sports industry. This allowed me
to build on a 2016 placement with the NFL.”
8 / THEPCA.CO.UK
Opening Up
AN OVER AT...
Colin
Metson
54, former Middlesex and
When did you
play your best
cricket?
Between 1991 and
Glamorgan stumper 1995. We won the
Sunday League in 1993
and finished second
to Middlesex in the
Where did your love championship. The
of cricket begin? highlight was standing up
I spent a huge amount of time to medium-pacers Steve
at Winchmore Hill cricket What did you Barwick and Roland
club in North London. I was Lefebvre for the last four
make of the overs of 40-over games.
in Middlesex’s junior section
from the age of 12 and was change? With the opposition
one of the lucky ones that The standard wasn’t regularly needing 30-odd
went the distance. as high as it was at to win and feeling in
Middlesex - that was sight of victory, the pair
a dressing room of would bowl yorker after
internationals. I joined yorker to close out games
Were you always a Glamorgan at the same for us. This happened, I’d
wicketkeeper? time as Alan Butcher say, nine times out of ten.
I was. And I was batting down the came from Surrey and
order even then. But Middlesex coach Ravi Shastri signed as
Don Bennett liked the look of me, our overseas. Hugh
which helped. I was on the staff Morris was captain and
aged 17 and made my debut against Matthew Maynard was
Derbyshire at Derby in 1980. just starting out. It was
a side with potential but
still felt good to not be
fighting for my place
every week.
What has kept you
busy after cricket?
I’d always worked during
the winters. My first
‘proper job’ was as a
project coordinator with
an international freight
forwarding company. That
lasted until 2004, where I
Why did you move clubs? joined the Sports Council
First team appearances were reliant on of Wales, the equivalent of
Paul Downton being in the England Sport England. I became
side. I had a pretty good run with Glamorgan’s Director
Middlesex right until the point that he of Cricket in 2011 until
dropped Australia’s Allan Border in a a restructuring saw six
Test match! He was then back full-time director-level roles go
and batting in the top six. I was 24 and down to four. My wife and
feeling blocked. There was, at that time, I now have an indoor play
opportunities for wicketkeepers at either centre called Adventure
Glamorgan or Somerset. As it turned Island (Barry). We’ve
out, Neil Burns went to Taunton from owned it for just short of
Essex and I moved to Wales. five years now.
THEPCA.CO.UK / 9
Opening Up
Save The Date Thursday October 4 at
The Roundhouse in Camden is the time and
place, as the NatWest PCA Awards elbows its
way to the front yet again for what is the
sport’s biggest and best party.
An evening of music, fun and celebrating success
with a host of county and England greats.
––
Email Daisy Newman for details - daisy.newman@thepca.co.uk
DALE HITS 50 AT WORLD CUP. POSSIBLY
allrounder, Adam Ball, the day helped Life begins at 50, or 49 if the rules allow it. That’s the hope for
former Glamorgan allrounder Adrian Dale who has recently
him recognise his own potential. ‘switched allegiances’ to debut – albeit a few months young - for
“The way they got us thinking was New Zealand Over 50s in a recent series against Australia.
very interesting and opened my eyes up Dale moved to Auckland in New Zealand’s North Island after
retiring from the game in 2004 and currently works for NZ Cricket
Blenheim Palace played to how creative I actually can be when I as General Manager of Community Cricket. Turning 50 in October
host to 16 current and put my mind to it.” means the veteran of 251 first-class matches is likely to be in-
former professional For Warwickshire’s Olly Hannon- the-nick-of-time available for selection for the inaugural Over 50s
World Cup in Australia at the end of the year. An event to which
sportsmen for a one-day Dalby, the experience of tackling England will also be sending a team.
entrepreneurs workshop. the exercises alongside current
professionals from another sport was
The PCA/RPA joint-initiative was as useful as the content itself. “I really
delivered by Fab Accelerator and enjoyed sharing ideas with the rugby
offered expert advice and experience lads. It was great to understand that
to those setting up on their own. “We some of the worries we have aren’t
know professional cricketers have restricted to cricket.”
the work ethic and focus necessary to PCA PDM Charlie Mulraine worked on
become successful entrepreneurs, said the project alongside the RPA’s Head of
business owner Gary Frank. “But they Personal Development, Ben McGregor.
showed beyond any doubt that they “Frank and his team from Fab
have the ability as well.” described the day as ‘inspiring’. I’m
The day highlighted the skills and confident that the players all have
qualities needed to be a successful the skills needed to do their own
NOTTINGHAM
self-starter, with business acumen far thing once they’ve retired from the
from the top of the list. For former Kent professional game.” Raising The Bridge
Trent Bridge’s iconic Radcliffe Road Stand is currently
undergoing something of a facelift, seeing the addition
of a new multi-million pound top floor. The added
upper layer - rising three floors above the existing
media accommodation at the world’s third oldest Test
ground - will provide additional broadcast space, plus a
state-of-the-art bar and restaurant. Affording ‘diners
and winers’ panoramic views across the ground and
surrounds, the scheme is scheduled for completion
ahead of England’s ODI against Australia on June 17.
10 / THEPCA.CO.UKOpening Up
Off- Nathan Freya Davies
Season Buck SUSSEX & ENGLAND WOMEN
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE “It’s always been important for me
Activity
to have a clear plan if cricket did not
“I spent two days a week, from work out and while in the England
October to December, working Academy I graduated from the
with Macildowie; a recruitment University of Exeter with an LLB
- for now and the future company based in the Midlands. Honours in Law. All parties were
At 26 I felt I needed to. From understanding, which allowed me
just this small amount of time to do what I needed to gain a 2:1
exploring a different industry, I feel and to be awarded a rookie England
more rounded and no longer fear contract. Post-cricket I’ve an ultimate
coming out of the game as much intention of becoming a solicitor.”
as I did.”
Michael Georgia Harvey
Richardson Elwiss Hosein
DURHAM ENGLAND WOMEN DERBYSHIRE
“I started a CIMA qualification this winter “While at Loughborough University I “I approached PDM Charlie
to help the transition into the corporate became really interested in nutrition. I Mulraine and asked if there
world, should that be the route I go began a one-day-a-week internship at were any opportunities. He had a
down after cricket - and passed the Mac-Nutrition, enabling me to learn contact at Smith & Williamson, a
exam I sat this winter. It’s the start of how to operate a small business. I financial services and investment
a long road but the qualification is completed an IOC Diploma in Sport management company. They were
globally recognised and well regarded. Nutrition, over two years of part-time offering a rounded experience
The course material can be done remotely study. I am now a qualified nutritionist across all aspects of the business.
- and in my own time - so hopefully I and can work with clients alongside I was quick to get my name down.”
can keep the momentum going.” my cricket and after I finish playing.”
Alice Jack Josh
Davidson- Shantry Poysden
Richard WORCESTERSHIRE
“This winter I have been spending
WARWICKSHIRE
KENT & EWSA “I’ve been doing an online course
time with the club sponsors in Education & Training through
“Graduating from the University of Blackfinch, courtesy of the WCCC Virtual Learning UK. I spent most
Leeds, I knew I wanted a job that allowed and the PCA programme. They are the winter in Sydney, meaning the
me to carry on training for cricket. I a fast-growing firm, working in course was perfect to do alongside
became an Exercise Specialist (PT) at a investment and financing. It was this. I found it easy to manage
local gym and I have been working there especially useful to understand the study and able to complete
for just over a year now. It changes from the different routes their team the assessments when I wanted.
four days a week in the off-season, to a members had taken to get into the The course tutor has also been
single day as cricket ramps up.” world of finance and progress.” extremely helpful.”
THEPCA.CO.UK / 11Opening Up
Cricket Falls In Line 2018 sees the game follow ball sports
around the world by adding provision for players to be sent
from the field of play to the statute book.
ECB operations manager, Alan Fordham, intimated that the
new powers were in play to protect cricket’s standards rather
than added to address any perceived crisis of conduct. With
four levels of behaviour under scrutiny and review, Level 3 and
4 breaches constitute ‘sending off’ offences. All are a response
to MCC updateding the Laws of the game in October 2017.
Just play.
Have fun. A SHAKE OF THE MONEY TREE
Enjoy the PCA members with currency exchange requirements can find
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player profile traders accommodate corporate and private clients alike, with fully-
trained staff guiding all parties through the step-by-step process.
Services also include strategic forward planning and monitoring, in
play in order to ensure buyers access and secure the very best rates.
For a highly professional and jargon-free experience, call John
Redford on 0203 326 4502 or alternatively contact the main
switchboard on 0203 326 4444.
––
worldwidecurrencies.com
AUSTRALIA COMMUNICATIONS CHANGES AT PCA
Making It Official Luke Reynolds has been promoted to PCA Communications Manager with Tom
Birtwistle joining as Communications Executive in a restructure in the comms team.
Kent seamer Mitchell Claydon has had a busy winter
Luke joined the PCA in the summer of 2013 as Social Media Executive for the Team
spent enjoying coaching duties as part of the Big Bash. England Player Partnership department, before progressing to Communications
Whilst the role offered the 35-year-old invaluable and Marketing Executive in early 2017. Luke has recently overseen the PCA
hands-on experience in T20 cricket it was his development rebrand, new website and mobile application.
as an umpire as the prime motivator. Tom held a joint role with Bolton Wanderers and the Bolton Wanderers Community
Trust and will bring his experience of working with digital media in professional
The former Durham man has taken every opportunity to football to the PCA.
officiate. Everything from schools cricket to second grade The new structure will see a refined approach to communications. Push
matches. If cricket commitments allow, the veteran of notifications on the app, a simplified website and a digital media strategy will add
over 100 first-class matches will be looking to stand in a to existing channels, which include your Beyond the Boundaries magazine.
number of games during the coming English summer.
12 / THEPCA.CO.UKOpening Up
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THEPCA.CO.UK / 13Where Are They Now?
––
Together again - One-day finalists and Sunday League MARK EALHAM The former England
Kent’s class of ’95. wizards, Kent won the 1995 AXA Equity &
Law League with a side of local heroes and
allrounder combines bowling coach duties
at Kent with the Head of Cricket role at The
Tom Jones did the a gun overseas star. It was the fourth time King’s School, Canterbury.
detective work. they’d got their hands on the 40-over trophy, DAVID FULTON After retiring in 2006, opening
holding off Warwickshire and Worcestershire batsman Fulton joined the media and is now
on ‘goal difference’ alone. a reporter with Sky Sports.
But the side’s visit to NW8 that summer TREVOR WARD Settling in Leicestershire after
for a Lord’s final was a heartbreaker. With a spell with the Midlanders, Ward is now
not even a masterful 112 from Aravinda de cricket professional at Uppingham School.
Silva enough to haul in Lancashire’s first NEIL TAYLOR Long-time number 3, Taylor is
innings 274-7 in 55 overs, Kent falling 35 working as a part-time batting coach with
runs short. Led by skipper Steve Marsh, Kent Academy and in local schools.
those 11 valiant Kentish Men, or Men of ARAVINDA DE SILVA
Kent, on July 15 were... After retiring from cricket, de Silva remained
14 / THEPCA.CO.UKClockwise: Martin McCague was in the international game as chairman of position on the PCA executive roster
also the club’s top wicket-taker Sri Lankan Cricket’s selection committee. before moving into the finance industry as
during the Sunday League triumph
with 21 victims; All smiles as Kent
Holding post for 13 months, his is now a foreign exchange broker.
lift the Sunday League trophy on Deputy Chairman of a large motor MARTIN MCCAGUE The wholehearted
the balcony at Canterbury. business, Ideal Automobiles. former England fast bowler embarked
Aravinda de Silva in scintillating
GRAHAM COWDREY Van Morrison-loving on a career in the booze business with
form during the B&H Cup final at
Lord’s v Lancashire. The squad at Cowdrey is employed by the ECB as a brewers Shepherd Neame and is now
the start of the summer. Cricket Liaison Officer officiating at first Director of Sales at wine wholesalers
class-matches around the county game. Matthew Clark.
MATTHEW FLEMING A former Royal DEAN HEADLEY Another former England
Green Jacket, England one-day allrounder fast bowler, the Kent and Worcestershire
Fleming was also President of the MCC man set out in the paper industry but is
and an ECB director. The hard-hitting now Cricket Master at Stamford School
righthander has also held several senior in Lincolnshire.
roles in his family’s wealth management TIM WREN Left-armer Wren worked as
business and is currently a partner at a plumbing and heating engineer in the
StoneHage Fleming. off-season during his playing days and
STEVEN MARSH The swashbuckling continues to do so in the family business
wicketkeeper-batsman held a longstanding in Folkestone.
THEPCA.CO.UK / 15Opening Up
A county pro reaches out for advice in confidence, following a
challenging workplace experience. His PDM responds.
A placement has left me feeling totally out of Secondly, it’s a tick in a box. Even if it hasn’t
my depth, when working in areas and on projects shown itself to be the job or industry for you,
I knew nothing about. you can chalk it off the list and move on to the
The environment was so alien to me, with people next opportunity. Knowing more about yourself
using industry language that I didn’t understand. and more of what you’re likely to enjoy, with the
I was being asked to use computer software that benefit of the experience you now have.
was unfamiliar to me - and for hours on end. Thirdly, you’ve added skills that weren’t there
It has been so demoralising an experience, I have previously. You have gained office experience, IT
to say, it has really made me question whether I skills and industry insight and knowledge.
would be prepared to do another work placement With all of the above comes overarching
any time soon. personal growth as a bonus. When you compare
the person you were prior to this work placement
to the person you are now you will notice different
things about yourself and realise new strengths
Thank you for sharing an experience that didn’t and skills are there. You will also be able to
prove itself to be the positive, affirming one you identify areas to further develop and that is only
were seeking. While the spell didn’t match up to going to stand you in good stead in the long term.
your expectations I would like to highlight some Congratulations are deserved. On everything
positives you might take away. you achieved. On to the next challenge.
Firstly, the resilience you showed. You stuck
it out and upheld your end. Just completing the ––
placement is a massive positive. It shows that you For more on how to make yourself most effective
can overcome a tough situation. in the modern workplace go to page 60
16 / THEPCA.CO.UKOpening Up
Getting The
Best Of You
Four PCA Members have been rewarded for their outstanding
off-field efforts by being named PCA Personal Development
Scholarship Award winners for 2018.
Current players Ollie Sale of Somerset and CURRENT PLAYER AWARD
Luke Wells of Sussex joined former county pros Sussex’s Luke Wells is in the process of
Michael Roberts and Joe Gatting to win the completing a degree in History through the Open
prestigious awards in 2018. University, highlighting the discipline required
The scheme, now in its sixth year, sees PCA to study remotely whilst an active player. The
members take part in a wide range of Personal lefthander was adamant that the change in
Development initiatives, with the award throwing focus offered by his studies was having a positive
the spotlight on some of the best examples of impact on his cricket. The soon-to-be-father
cricketers getting ‘on the front foot’. said: “I’ve had my best seasons since taking up
The membership competes in three the books again. I hope it continues.”
categories: Newcomers, Current and Past PAST PLAYERS AWARD
Players. After a written application stage, the This is shared in 2018 by former Hampshire BANGING HEADS,
shortlisted candidates are invited for a panel players Michael Roberts and Joe Gatting. TOGETHER
presentation at Edgbaston, offering their Gatting, who has spent the majority of his As a result of a new law, teams
will be able to make ‘like-for-like’
thoughts on the Personal Development career at Sussex, is studying an Open University player replacements in the event
process, before answering questions on degree in Sport, Fitness and Coaching. The of one of their ranks sustaining
their submissions. flexibility of this remote study option is allowing a concussion or a suspected
concussion in county cricket or
THE NEWCOMERS AWARD the 30-year-old to take a sabbatical from Women’s Super League.
Aimed as it sounds at those fresh to the idea teaching at the Norwich School in Norfolk, to “This is a change made in the
of Personal Development and saw Somerset’s develop his coaching experience at the Darren interests of player safety and
health,” said ECB chief medical
Ollie Sale top the pile. Ollie graduated in 2017 Lehmann Cricket Academy in Adelaide. officer, Dr Nick Peirce. “And while
with a first class Honours Degree in Business Roberts, who successfully completed the concussion is not as common
Management from Newcastle University, having Barcelona Marathon last year in aid of the PCA in cricket as in contact sports
such as rugby, our research has
previously co-founded ‘Student Bubble’ in 2016, Benevolent Fund, is currently working at London shown an average of around 15-20
a web- and mobile-based platform that assists Irish Rugby Club as a Sports Psychologist, having incidents in first and second team
undergraduates across seven UK cities source balanced a job in the City with gaining Masters cricket during each of the last
few seasons.”
accommodation. Degrees in both Sport Psychology and Applied Protocol is in place for a five-
Commenting on his achievements Sale said: Sports Psychology. minute on-field assessment to be
“Part of the reason I’ve tried to be so proactive Winners receive a financial award against the starting point in the decision-
making process. With the out-
with my personal development in recent years the costs of courses as well as serving as PCA come of that discussion ruled on
is to provide a platform if cricket doesn’t work Personal Development Ambassadors for 2018. by the cricket liaison officer away
out. I’ve had some injuries already in my career –– from the middle.
Alan Fordham, the ECB’s head
and that has opened my mind to a life beyond the The next round of applications for scholarship awards fall of cricket operations, said that
game, as I know I won’t be able to play forever”. due in November 2018. Contact your PDM if interested, agreeing what constitutes a
especially if you have secured work experience or gained suitable and fair replacement
qualifications this winter. would need some flexibility and
interpretation in ensuring that no
strategic benefit was gained.
THEPCA.CO.UK / 17Opening Up
New! In Cricket
The stuff you might easily have missed. At a glance. Terrible headlines.
CRICKET TO SAY ‘MAYBE’
TO LONDON STADIUM?
It emerged last year that the England and Wales
Cricket Board is considering high-capacity
venues at the request of the International
Cricket Council for the staging of World Cup
matches.
The 60,000-seat London Stadium is much THREE OUT ICE RINKS COACH TRIP
larger than any UK cricket ground and Nottinghamshire’s Alex Hales The first day of Spring and with a Former Gloucestershire and
would fit the bill. But there are hoops and Yorkshire’s Adil Rashid agree fortnight until the counties embark England bowler Jon Lewis has
white-ball only contracts with their on the now traditional round of taken the helm of the England
to get through... counties. Swing bowler Reece pre-season, sub-zero, woolly-hatted U19 side as head of England’s
Topley will also focus on limited friendlies, according to social media, Young Lions programme. He
However, a number of other feasibility issues
overs cricket with Hampshire due all 18 county home grounds find replaces Andy Hurry who returns to
must be addressed. To stage cricket, the to medical advice. themselves under blankets of snow. Somerset as Director of Cricket.
stadium’s seating configuration would be
similar to that used for athletics, rather than
as employed by tenants West Ham United for
football matches.
Obstacles to overcome include the cost-
effectiveness of turfing the entire playing
area and the suitability of drop-in pitches,
which are rarely used in the UK.
Eleven traditional cricket venues - Lord’s, The
PLAYER MOVES ICE DRINKS MVP UPDATE
Oval, Trent Bridge, Edgbaston, Old Trafford, Batsman Sam Northeast has Somerset’s combative allrounder As England’s winter white-ball
Headingley, Cardiff, Southampton, Chester-le- signed a ‘long-term’ contract to join Peter Trego took it upon himself campaign ends there are two new
Street, Taunton and Bristol - are in line to host Hampshire from Kent, the south to provide soup and hot drinks for faces topping the MVP Rankings.
matches. coast club winning the race for the rough sleepers in his hometown Dawid Malan led the way in T20s
28-year-old’s signature ahead of of Weston-super-Mare during the while allrounder Chris Woakes
Of that list, Lord’s has the highest capacity a field reported to be the ‘greatest coldest part of the winter, garner- finished highest in ODIs.
ever’ in for an English player. ing support from local businesses.
- hovering around 30,000.
However, the ICC is keen to replicate the 2015
World Cup in Australia and New Zealand,
which saw attendances in excess of 90,000
in Melbourne, and games held at other large
stadiums in Sydney, Adelaide and Auckland.
Of those, Auckland’s Eden Park, traditionally
a rugby ground, has dimensions that left
the straight boundaries incredibly short.
TALL BOWLER ICE BRINK WONDER WYATT
London Stadium has previously been considered Australia’s mile-high seamer The Swiss alpine resort of St Moritz Danielle Wyatt hit a career-best
by Essex for domestic Twenty20 matches. Billy Stanlake has agreed terms hosted teams from across the globe 124 from 64 deliveries as England
with Yorkshire. The 6’7” Adelaide for a game of cricket played on a fro- women beat India in the recent T20
Strikers man joins the Vikings for zen lake. Former England men Matt tri-series, amassing 15 fours and five
a summer in the Vitality Blast. Prior and Monty Panesar featured. sixes in a record-breaking run chase.
18 / THEPCA.CO.UKOpening Up
Giving 100
& 10 Per Cent
A sample group of 418 past professionals completed a recent survey asking a
variety of questions about their lives inside and outside the boundary ropes.
Here are some of the more revealing answers offering real food for thought.
84.62% 37% One in
nine
OF PLAYERS INDICATED THEY WOULD HAVE EXPERIENCED FINANCIAL DIFFICULTY
LIKED TO HAVE ACCESSED THE CURRENT WITHIN FIVE YEARS OF RETIRING
LEVELS OF SUPPORT AVAILABLE IN FROM THE SPORT REPORTED SEEING THE
TRANSITIONING OUT OF THE SPORT MISUSE OF SLEEPING OR
PAIN MEDICATION
Only 26
per cent
16% 12%
OF PLAYERS SURVEYED SAID THEIR SUSTAINED AN INJURY THAT
MENTAL HEALTH HAD SUFFERED AND ENDED THEIR CAREER
PLAYED MORE THAN 100 THEY HAD SOUGHT HELP
FIRST-CLASS GAMES
Only eight 99% 8%
per cent BELIEVE THAT CURRENT DIVORCED WHILST PLAYING AND
PLAYERS WERE RIGHT TO 20 PER CENT SEPARATED WITHIN
OF PROFESSIONALS SAID RECEIVE PROGRAMMES THAT THREE YEARS OF FINISHING
THEY DID NOT NEED A SUPPORTED THEIR TRANSITION THEIR PLAYING CAREER
CAREER AFTER PLAYING FROM THE GAME
THEPCA.CO.UK / 19Opening Up
If I Knew
Then...
Former Surrey, Essex &
England man Alex Tudor
offers his ‘young self’ the
benefit of a lifetime
spent in cricket.
Be wary of social media. Don’t get
drawn into arguments with keyboard
warriors out there. What you say and
how you behave hangs around.
Cricket doesn’t get any better than playing
the game with and against your heroes.
Be humble. Be true to yourself. Sign
autographs. And if you can’t sign an autograph
right that minute when you’re asked, tell the
person you will be back to sign for them.
There is no excuse for being a poor fielder.
If you can’t do it well, you will not play at
the highest level. Gone are the days of
being just a batsman or bowler.
Alex Tudor will be captaining the PCA England Masters across the summer,
visit thepca.co.uk/pca-england-masters for the full list of fixtures
20 / THEPCA.CO.UKOpening Up
ON THE ROAD
The pre-season period saw PCA’s Ian Thomas, Ali Prosser and Rich Hudson lead meetings at all 18 county clubs.
Accompanied by the region’s Personal Development Managers, sessions saw members brought up to speed
Get out and meet on how the Association supports the membership across a whole range of subjects. With one matter high on
people. You never the agenda being the new T20 competition. Player Contracts Advisor Rich Hudson’s input was a new addition to
know, you might proceedings, offering a wealth of knowledge and experience in this field.
be meeting your
future boss.
Take onboard
everything the coach RUBBING
tells you. Take it in SHOULDERS
and train hard. WITH THE BEST
It has been a winter
of discovery for
Essex gloveman
James Foster.
Learn some skills Whilst maintaining
as a bowler. Have commitments as
a good yorker and a coach at Forest
School, the former
even if you miss England man
with it a first time, received the call to
find the confidence join Khulna Titans
to go for it again. as an assistant coach.
It also proved an
opportunity to access
the knowledge of
head coach and
Despite how you former Sri Lanka run
might think things machine, Mahela
are going, you’re Jayawardene.
only an injury
away from it all
being over. Take
MOZAMBIQUE
the opportunity
to experience Out Of Africa
everything that Former Lancashire and Leicestershire batsman Iain Sutcliffe
presents itself. has set up a charity identifying high-potential cricketing
scholars in Africa, with the aim of nurturing their skills and
attributes through the implementation of a cutting-edge
leadership, coaching and character education programme.
Do other things. Called the Young African Leadership Program (YALP), the first
It helps you relax recipients of the scholarship awards have been identified as
and play your best. students in Mozambique, attending the innovative Enko Benga
International School in Tete.
The heart of YALP’s vision is to inspire and equip the next
generation of future African leaders, drawing upon the expertise
of leading educators to deliver innovative leadership programmes
which have been quality assured by Oxford University.
––
If you would like to make a contribution to the charity or get
involved, then please visit the website yalp.org.uk
THEPCA.CO.UK / 21Opening Up
Zafar
Ansari
Former Surrey and England allrounder
on his career, then and now
was part-time and self-driven months since it happened and I still live those
it replicated my university life moments and enjoy the fact that it happened.
in terms of maintaining an I actually travelled with a couple of
academic challenge, which I injury issues - a bad back being one and
think I needed. a thumb injury the other. I felt physically
I had done well in white-ball underprepared and not really in a position to
cricket during my summers make the most of the opportunity.
between university terms and felt
WHAT WERE YOUR CRICKETING ASPIRATIONS established in that area. In terms of the YOU RETIRED SHORTLY AFTER RETURNING
GROWING UP? four-day game, because at university you are HOME FROM THAT ENGLAND TOUR. HOW DID
Becoming a professional cricketer was always playing against people that are generally of THAT COME ABOUT?
something I committed to, but not something lesser ability, it is difficult to prepare yourself I was looking forward to the season ahead.
that I specifically targeted. Even though I for the challenges of Championship cricket. Even if I never played for England again, I
dedicated plenty of time and effort to playing could be proud of my achievements and work
cricket to the highest level, it was always a IN SEPTEMBER 2015 YOU WERE NAMED IN hard to have a successful county career with
case of if it was going to happen, it would THE ENGLAND TOURING PARTY FOR THE Surrey. But I began to grow ambivalent to the
happen naturally. SERIES WITH PAKISTAN, BUT IT DIDN’T QUITE day-to-day experience of playing.
GO TO PLAN? The feelings around failing at times, balanced
TO CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY FROM SCHOOL - No, I think that’s fair to say. I picked up a with the joys of success, are something I have
HOW DID YOU MANAGE ACADEMIC PRESSURE thumb injury when fielding on the same day always been able to manage quite well but
WITH BEING AN ASPIRING PROFESSIONAL I was selected for England. In hindsight it that balance was becoming harder and harder
CRICKETER? was quite an important moment in my career to reach. I took some time to reflect on what
I trained every day and spent a lot of time in as I had been playing well for a couple of I felt and spoke to my family. Essentially it
the gym. I would say I put in as much training years, so the call-up felt a logical and natural happened quite quickly, but I knew it was the
time at university as I would have done within progression. I was then picked the following correct decision.
a usual county set-up. Academically, the year for tours of Bangladesh and India, but
pressures could be stressful but it was always the selection felt more in recognition for what TELL US ABOUT LIFE AFTER CRICKET?
in the knowledge that there would be a couple I had done previously rather than a reflection I am working as a Youth Advocate for Just
of hours in each day where I could escape the on my form at the time. for Kids Law, alongside studying for a law
books and work on something different. conversion course. The role involves acting as
CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR INTERNATIONAL a non-legal representative for young people
HOW DID YOU MANAGE THE TRANSITION FROM EXPERIENCES? aged 16-25. Any young person who has issues
UNIVERSITY TO BECOMING A FULL-TIME PRO? It was amazing to be awarded an England around immigration, homelessness, housing
One thing that really helped was enrolling on cap and the memory of taking wickets is or education, they become my client and I act
a Masters degree straight away. Although it something I cherish. It has only been 18 on their behalf. I also work alongside them to
help them understand the situation they find
themselves in and also understand their legal
It was amazing to be awarded an England cap and the rights. That can be quite confusing for a young
memory of taking wickets is something I cherish person when dealing with multiple agencies.
22 / THEPCA.CO.UKOn The Cover
Eastern
Bloc’er Natalie Sciver is one of England Women’s most
influential performers. BtB met up with the star
allrounder after a day’s training with the national team
at Loughborough to talk about growing up abroad
and her rise to international success.
PORTRAITS: SAM BOWLES
24 / THEPCA.CO.UKOn The Cover THEPCA.CO.UK / 25
On The Cover
orn in Tokyo, England allrounder Natalie sport in Poland. I had girls who were friends from other
Sciver came to cricket later than most. things I did.
Stints in the Netherlands and Poland,
courtesy of globetrotting parents, saw WHAT WAS YOUR EARLIEST CRICKETING MEMORY?
the sports-mad youngster playing football Nothing organised at all in Poland. My dad went to
more than committing to any ball-striking sports. Cambridge at Jesus College and there was an annual
A permanent return to the UK and school at Epsom reunion which saw a group of families return with their
College in Surrey saw the talented cove choose the children for a weekend. Parents would play one day
summer game over a number of other strong contenders. then kids the next. After a while I started playing in the
Naturally athletic, tall and strong, the 25-year-old’s dads’ team and they didn’t much like it, as I recall. They
talents were quickly recognised and a career in the game had started to slow down a bit and I was a bit quicker. I
placed on fast-track. It was a rise that saw Sciver join the remember it as always being the highlight of the year.
England senior ranks in 2013, making her debut against
Pakistan. YOU MUST HAVE EXCELLED AND IMPROVED FAST?
A veteran of four Tests, 44 ODIs (with two hundreds) It wasn’t the first ball-striking sport I tried, but I joined
and 40 T20Is, Sciver was a World Cup winner in 2017. a club when I first came back to the UK. I was still
Described as ‘our Ben Stokes’ by England captain playing football at the time, but ended up deciding to go
Heather Knight, she lives and trains in the Midlands. with cricket as I related better to the cricket girls than
the football crowd. Then it came down to a practical
WHAT WERE YOU LIKE AT SCHOOL? decision. I was at a school with Saturday lessons and I
I just liked getting outside and trying to play every sport wanted a day off at the weekend. One of them had to go.
I could. I enjoyed mucking around playing football with I thought that on balance I would enjoy cricket more.
the boys at break time. I was certainly more interested in
that than I was learning. I did the bare minimum that I WAS THERE A BREAKTHROUGH MOMENT FOR YOU DURING
could in order to get through … and not much more. THOSE EARLY DAYS?
I think there probably was. I played in the Women’s
WERE YOU ALWAYS SPORTY? Super Fours competition. I got into it late, didn’t really
Yes, I think I was. Did I think I was any good? I guess so, know anyone and was absolutely terrified when I started
but I wasn’t and I’m still not someone to talk myself up. out. My first game was a bit of a blur. All I can remember
When I was at school in Poland, I’d play football in the is being told off by Claire Taylor for not calling when
boys’ team and in the same afternoon play in the girls’ team we were batting together. Luckily I had a second
as well. And I’d still try to get to every corner of the pitch. opportunity and made a fifty in not as many balls and
I’d say that I was pretty natural at picking up most sports. from there I got an England call. I guess that was one of
those moments where I felt like I’d done alright. It was
DID YOU ENJOY SPORTS FOR THEIR OWN SAKE OR WAS IT the year before I went to university at Loughborough,
WINNING THAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING? which also worked out well.
I guess it was an element of both. I just liked to be
active. I’m not sure how influenced by winning I was at HOW DO YOU COPE WITH THE CHALLENGES OF BEING AN
that stage. I’d play in the park or in the garden - there ALLROUNDER IN THE MODERN GAME?
wasn’t really a consequence to it other than the fact that Everyone strives for consistency in how they play and
I enjoyed it so much. But I did mainly play boys’ sports perform. And also in the numbers they create. Twenty-over
growing up. I was a decent basketball player but I mainly cricket makes those statistics less easy to maintain. You are
played with boys. Girls didn’t really seem to like or play always going to make low scores and get out because of
26 / THEPCA.CO.UKIn one-day mode: Natalie Sciver
guides the ball for more runs.
the demands of the format. As a bowler people are going to
hit you for sixes, as well. This pressure means that skill levels
keep going up and up. Internationally, the game is definitely
more competitive across the board. It’s great that scores are
rising. As no-one wants to see a side put together a scratchy
total of 80. It’s not what the game is made for.
YOU PLAYED IN THE BIG BASH RECENTLY. HOW WAS THE
EXPERIENCE?
I enjoyed it. Australia’s cricket is certainly improving and
getting to a place where they want it to be. The Indians aren’t
far behind - the same with West Indies cricket and also in
South Africa. As I said before, it’s a stronger game than ever.
WHEN YOU’RE NOT PLAYING AND TOURING, HOW DO YOU LIKE
TO SPEND YOUR TIME?
Building a property empire with Kathrine Brunt! We’ve
houses in the Loughborough area and I like to get my
hands dirty in doing them up. The latest project needed
paving out the back, but at the moment it looks like we’ve
built a moat. You need to put your wellies on just to take
the bins out. The longer-term goal is to buy some land and
build on it. That’s the plan anyway.
WHEN HAVE YOU FELT MOST LIKE A CELEBRITY?
Around the World Cup this year, I suppose. When the final
was over. Doing a lap of Lord’s and signing autographs. I
was one of the last out there. Once I’d started I couldn’t stop.
The Best Of FAVOURITE TV
SHOW? There
FAVOURITE
ALBUM?
FAVOURITE FAVOURITE
SPORTS PERSON? GAME? Cluedo.
Everything is no wifi where I Maroon 5’s ‘Songs David Beckham was a The last time I played
Natalie live, so it’s DVDs at About Jane’ is my hero in football, Andrew any game that wasn’t
Sciver’s the moment. ‘Grey’s all-time favourite. I’m Flintoff in cricket. He a drinking game was
Greatest Anatomy’ has a bit of also listening to and was an allrounder and probably about five
Hits
everything for enjoying the latest someone who could months ago! Games
everyone. Foo Fighters record, have an impact on a night is always fun
‘Concrete and Gold’. game. on tour. Competitive
though!
THEPCA.CO.UK / 27Seven-game veteran:
Gloucestershire’s
James Bracey at PCA
Rookie Camp 2018.
28 / THEPCA.CO.UKSTANDING
AT THE FOOT
OF THE
MOUNTAIN
A first season in the professional game can be
exciting and daunting in equal measure. Read
about six rookies looking to make an impact
in 2018, plus a half-dozen newbies that left
their mark on the modern game.
THEPCA.CO.UK / 29Cover Story
An eighth annual Rookie Camp always places the players’ needs to the 21st Century Boys
happened at Edgbaston in mid fore. As a former county cricketer with Six county cricketers
February, with the day-long event Middlesex and Derbyshire, Harrison of the modern era
bringing together cricketers, all having is someone with first-hand experience whose first seasons
recently signed their first professional of the good work undertaken by top all others
contracts. the players’ union body. “I have
The roster included players from 11 been a member since 1993 and the
counties, plus members of the MCC PCA Rookie Camp has been a vital
Young Cricketers and England women’s addition to a young player’s education
academy, with all exposed to talks and programme. For young cricketers to
workshops on topics that covered all make the most of these opportunities
6
points between anti-corruption, legal they need to be listening to the
support, social media training, gambling wonderful advice the PCA is giving.
addictions and contract negotiation. “The PCA play a vital support role in
It was also the opportunity of young helping manage the increasing pressures
cricketers to talk to and gain knowledge that are put on today’s players.”
from seasoned professionals. Q&As A unifying force across the day
with former England cricketers Ryan was the unilateral understanding of
Sidebottom and current Leicestershire the importance of day. From young
captain Michael Carberry afforded the cricketers getting to grips with marrying
opportunity for internationals to pass their aspirations on the playing fields
on their experiences of a career enjoyed, with an appreciation of the role and
but played under pressure. PCA responsibilities associated with being Name: Joe Root
Chairman and Worcestershire batsman a professional sportsman. To veteran County: Yorkshire
Year: 2011
Daryl Mitchell said, “I’m sure the players looking to support those Runs scored: 937
players will leave here having learnt a aspirations via knowledge gained at the Average: 36.03
great deal. Back in my days as a rookie cricketing coalface. To administrators
we didn’t have this.” and business professionals looking to The 2011 summer saw a
Ian Thomas, Director of support across the piece. fresher-than fresh-faced
Development and Welfare at the PCA, 20-year-old right-hander put
added, “It’s really encouraging to see together a season of substance
these players come in and understand in Division One of the county
what the PCA can do to assist them. championship with a maiden
These players are just about to start first-class hundred (160 v
an extremely important and exciting Sussex at Scarborough) the
journey and it’s crucial that we give highlight. Reaching three-figures
Speaking from
them the best possible education and experience: coincided with the Sheffield-
support throughout.” Leicestershire’s born cove’s elevation to the
Michael Carberry
ECB CEO, Tom Harrison also England Lions programme,
takes questions
featured, commenting on how the PCA from the floor. prompting Root to admit at
the time, “I was as surprised
as anyone”. Consistent
PLAYERS IN ATTENDANCE: Hamidullah Qadri, Callum Brodrick, Alfie Gleadall, James Taylor performances across all forms
(Derbyshire), Gareth Harte, Matthew Potts, George Harding (Durham), Connor Brown, of the game has proven less of
Kiran Carlson (Glamorgan), James Bracey, George Drissell (Gloucestershire), Sam Evans a shock and sees the current
(Leicestershire), Tom Lace (Middlesex), Tom Banton, Ollie Sale, Fin Trennouth (Somerset), Gus England Test captain rated as
Atkinson, Ryan Patel, Will Jacks (Surrey), Sunny Singh, Henry Brookes (Warwickshire), Pat Brown one of the world’s very-best. His
(Worcestershire), Jordan Thompson, Harry Brook (Yorkshire), Dom Manthorpe, Kash Ali (MCCYC), 13 Test hundreds and ten ODI
Sophie Ecclestone, Alice Davidson-Richards, Freya Davies and Katie George (Women’s academy) tons, aged just 27, means power
to add.
30 / THEPCA.CO.UKYou can also read
