Former West Indies and Derbyshire bowling legend Michael Holding says the improved developments around the ground will help to have a positive effect on the field.
The fierce fast-bowler, who played for Derbyshire between 1983 and 1989, taking 277 wickets first class wickets, officially opened the new OKI Business & Media Centre last week.
“Anyone who played here in the 1980s like I did – wouldn’t recognise the ground – it’s a totally different ground,” said Holding.
“The club is getting better as far as facilities are concerned – and that means better product on the field.
“When I was at Derbyshire we didn’t have the best team in the world – by August we were out of most competitions but at the same time we were competitive against a lot of counties and we used to beat a lot of counties.
“If you can get the facilities in place, if you can get the funding in place that is the basic thing that you need for growth and hopefully the club can start growing again.”
Holding, now a popular Sky Sports commentator, believes that the club should continue to look outside the realms of cricket in its bid raise funds to improve facilities.
“It’s always going to be a fight – yes you are a cricket club but whatever way you can bring funds to the club – you’ve got to do it.”
The new OKI Business & Media Centre boasts state-of-the-art facilities for local and national media, including two radio studios, a television live broadcasting studio, commentary box and a written press room which holds up to 32 people.
“It’s a fantastic view – you can see everything,” added Holding. “You can appreciate the game so much more. That’s why the umpires stand where they stand; it’s always a great view looking down the pitch.”
