A PARTY of more than 40 young cricketers on the Somerset Pathway have flown off for a 13 day tour to Sri Lanka where, in addition to playing matches, they will experience the local culture as well as enjoying some sight seeing.
Three age groups of cricketers going - the Girls and Boys Under 15s and the Girls Under 18s, and while they are away the squads will play five matches.
The touring party will be accompanied by eight coaches and support staff - Matt Drakeley, the Head of Talent Pathway, Andrew Griffiths, Head of Pathway Coaching, Andy Payne Pathway Coach and Analyst and Kieran Peters, Pathway Coach and Women’s and Girls Lead. The support staff travelling with the group are Dave Roberts, Somerset Women’s Head Coach, Jack Moore, Sam Braid and Tilly Bond.
Ahead of the tour Sir Michael Barber, the Chair of Somerset CCC, said: “I’d like to wish the best of luck to all our young people, girls and boys, U18 as well as U15, on their Tour of Sri Lanka.
“I am sure it will be a wonderful experience from a cultural as well as a cricket point of view. Somerset Cricket is not just about winning cricket matches - though we love doing that - it is also about developing skills, building confidence, opening up opportunities, and creating lasting memories among people from a wide range of diverse backgrounds.”
Sir Michael added: “I look forward to following the Tour as it happens and hearing all about it when the tourists return."