Northants plan Barbados pre-season trip

By Paul Bolton, County News Correspondent

Northamptonshire will prepare for next season with a 12-day trip to Barbados. The trip, which is being supported by the Barbados Tourism Board, will involve matches against Barbados and other county sides who will be heading to the Caribbean ahead of the start of the new domestic season.

“Once again there will be an early start to the season, which means it is crucially important that the lads can get as much cricket as possible before it,” said Northamptonshire head coach David Ripley.

“With uncertain weather conditions in March, sometimes outdoor practice can be limited if staying in England. We all saw how the team hit the ground running following the last pre-season tour to South Africa in 2011.

“I also think it is forward-thinking of the club to allow us this opportunity, which will stand us in good stead leading into the 2013 season.”

Northamptonshire will fly to Barbados on March 11 and return home on March 23 to complete their preparations for the season at Wantage Road. They will play two two-day matches, a 40-over match and also take part in the Twenty20 tournament while they are on the island.

The Northants players have helped to fund the trip along with a donation from the county’s Supporters Club and funding from the club itself.

 

Date: 09/11/2012 19:40:00 by Paul Bolton
In: Today | Northamptonshire |