Wayne Madsen says the return of Members for a full season for the first time since 2019 will boost Derbyshire’s squad, as they aim to build on improvements in 2022.
2022 Membership is on sale now, with Members able to attend every regular-season day of home Derbyshire cricket for just £179, with Junior Memberships (normally £40) FREE when purchased alongside any adult Membership*.
Supporters were unable to attend any cricket until May 2021 due to Covid-19 restrictions, while full capacity did not return until more than halfway through the campaign.
Madsen says even the initial return of Members in limited numbers was a huge boost for the squad, and looks forward to seeing The Incora County Ground faithful back to full compliment in 2022.
“It was brilliant to have Members back in the ground last season, it makes such a difference,” he said.
“To have that ripple in four-day cricket and the atmosphere in a T20 again is something we all relish as players. It’s bizarre that for so long our Members weren’t able to watch us, so that first day back was so special, to see so many friendly faces who are always at the ground, but also some new faces who came in to enjoy the cricket for the very first time.
“As restrictions have eased, it’s just got better and better, it’s been really refreshing for us to have the support of our Members in the ground again.
“Some of our younger players had never played in front of bigger crowds before, and they really enjoyed it when they got that chance this year. They’re champing at the bit to get back out there in front of those crowds for a full season. That will be really special for us all to experience again. That support we get from our Members and supporters is always special, it gives us as players a huge lift.”
As Derbyshire gear up for the appointment of a new Head of Cricket, there is a wave of excitement around the club, as it looks to move on the disappointment of 2021.
Madsen, who missed all white ball cricket last season through a serious hamstring injury, says the squad are eager to take advantage of the fresh start and move forward in 2022.
“With a new Head of Cricket about to come in, it’s an exciting time,” he added.
“Whenever you have a fresh start, it’s exciting for Members, supporters and players, it’s something new and a chance to regroup as we look towards next year. 2021 was a disappointing season, we started off quite optimistic, the injuries weren’t ideal and sometimes it’s hard to get out of that losing run.
“But as a team, we will be better and stronger for it. The most important thing is that we, as a group, learn from this experience because we never want to have a year like this one again. We’re going to do everything in our power as players to put things right.”
*Terms and conditions apply
2022 Membership – One Club, Our County
2022 Membership is on sale now, with supporters able to attend a full season of Derbyshire home cricket for the first time since 2019, along with a host of other great benefits for just £179!
