The Derbyshire squad attended Coghlans Cookery School in Chesterfield on Wednesday 27 January as part of a Personal Development Programme run throughout pre-season.
The cookery class was a joint initiative between the Club and the Players’ Cricket Association (PCA) aimed at improving the players off the field.
The players each cooked two dishes, a starter and a main course, which helped raise awareness of healthy eating in a fun environment.
The players, who were taught by British Masterchef Simon Lilley and chef tutor Owen Moody, cooked pasta from scratch, creating a spinach cannelloni with ricotta and a fresh tomato and herb sauce, poached breast of chicken filled with a mushroom duxelle served on freshly cut ribbons of tagliatelle and a rich basil pesto.
The squad of 18 was split into groups of three and competed against each other for the number one spot, which was won by Harvey Hosein, Billy Godleman and Tony Palladino, having been judged on the taste of the dishes, the skills taught, team ethic and presentation.
“We are all very competitive and loved the team banter” said Wayne Madsen. “We found the knife skills very useful and it is something we will take away with us.
“This day has been excellent for educating our players, eating healthier is highly important for us.”
PCA Personal Development and Welfare Manager, Charlie Mulraine added: “This was a joint initiative between the PCA and the county for a bit of fun team-building whilst also exposing the guys to a new environment.
“The facilities were excellent and the Coghlans chefs were knowledgeable and patient, not a swear word in the air. From the lively atmosphere, the players enjoyed the competitive element to the day and picked up some useful healthy cooking and knife tips. Fortunately the players went home with all fingers intact.”
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