Bradfords extends partnership with Somerset County Cricket Club

Bradfords Building Supplies has extended its partnership with Somerset County Cricket Club for a further 12 months. Under the agreement, Bradfords will continue as the club’s official pathway partner, as well as becoming its official academy partner.

The Somerset Academy provides an opportunity for talented young cricketers from across the region to further develop their potential within an elite environment and aids development across a variety of disciplines, both on and off the field. Recent Academy graduates include Jack Leach, Craig Overton, Tom Banton and Lewis Gregory, all of whom are now established international cricketers.

Matt Drakeley, head of the SCCC talent pathway, said: “We have a proud history of our players making their way from the Pathway onto the Academy and then into the First XI. A number of these players have also gone on to make their mark at the very highest level for England. Rather than resting on our laurels we are constantly striving to improve, and the support of Bradfords will certainly help us to ensure that we continue to provide the regions young players with the best possible opportunity to fulfil their aspirations.

“In the last 12 months alone, we have seen Academy players like Sonny Baker, George Thomas and James Rew transition impressively into the First XI, and everyone associated with the Club is grateful to Bradfords for supporting us in our quest to find and develop the next generation of Somerset and England players.”

SCCC commercial director, Caroline Herbert, said: “From day one Bradfords have underlined their commitment to supporting the very foundations of the Club. The development of young local talent is very much a key element to their core values, and that is something that resonates strongly with us both on and off the field.

“Their continued support will help to ensure that our Pathway and Academy remain the envy of the English domestic game.”

Paul Malloy, head of marketing at Bradfords, said: “Bradfords, in partnership with Somerset County Cricket Club, are delighted to be able to continue to build on the shared solid foundations of supporting grass roots cricket in our local communities. We are immensely proud to remain as the Club’s Official Pathway Partner, and we see it as a natural progression in our relationship to become the Club’s new Official Academy Partner for the new season ahead.”