In the lead-up to a full and competitive summer, our County Age Groups Boys (U13, 14, and 15) undertook a 3-week outdoor training programme focused on enhancing their fielding and fitness levels in preparation for the season. At Hertfordshire, we are acutely aware of the significance of fielding in the game, an aspect often overlooked during periods of net and technical sessions. The escalating pace and power across all cricket formats have underscored the importance of maintaining high levels of fitness and athleticism, prompting the decision to organize these sessions.

By utilizing the exceptional 4G astro-turf facilities at the University of Hertfordshire, the county ensured that training could proceed despite adverse weather conditions. This provided each squad with a valuable opportunity to not only address aspects of fielding that are difficult to simulate indoors, such as high catching, boundary fielding, and whole-pitch practice, but also to spend quality time together as a squad, fostering camaraderie and facilitating mutual learning. We are optimistic that this initiative will give the age groups a competitive edge as the busy season rapidly approaches.