Derbyshire CCC to return to Abu Dhabi for pre-season

The Burton-based global engineering firm has pledged a five-year partnership with the club to become official sponsors of the pre-season tour in memory of the late Keith Poynton, father of Derbyshire wicketkeeper, Tom. 

The partnership secures future pre-season tours, which will allow the Derbyshire squad to partake in warm weather outdoor pre-season training ahead of each new campaign, starting with the March 2015 trip to Abu Dhabi.

The squad will fly to the United Arab Emirates on Saturday, March 7 and will spend nine days based at the state of the art Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium before returning on Monday, March 16.

Derbyshire will compete in both red and white ball action against first-class opposition as Abu Dhabi provides a warm weather backdrop to the intense regime of pre-season training ahead of the 2015 campaign.

Elite performance director Graeme Welch said: “We’re really grateful to Briggs of Burton for making this possible. Getting outside and practising on grass, in top facilities, is the best possible way to prepare for the new season.

“During our great run at the end of last season, a lot of it was things coming together that we worked on in Abu Dhabi. It was a good trip last year and we are happy to be returning again.

“From the point of view of the spectators, it’s also a great city, so come along and support us.”

Official Supporters Tour

Supporters can join the first-team squad as part of the Official Supporters’ Tour in association with Etihad Holidays and Sportarabia Worldwide on a package that includes:

- Flights to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways, Airport Transfers and Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing Fee

- Eight nights at the Radisson Blu hotel including breakfast and taxis

- All match tickets & stadium hospitality plus an exclusive team dinner with the Derbyshire players

- Six match transport package with return transport from Yas Island to all games

Price: From £1,280 per person (based on twin share); from £1,700 per person (single room).

For more information about attending the Briggs of Burton Pre-Season Tour, visit derbyshireccc.com, call 08445570646 or email [email protected].