Ashley Giles on Worcestershire CCC: ‘Possibly the Right Moment’ for Pears to Exit New Road

Ashley Giles on Worcestershire CCC: 'Possibly the Right Moment'

Ashley Giles on Worcestershire CCC: ‘Possibly the Right Moment’ for Pears to Exit New Road

Worcestershire’s chief executive, Ashley Giles, has expressed concerns about the future of the club’s iconic New Road home, suggesting that it might be time for them to consider relocating following a winter of severe flooding.

The county has already been forced to move their first two scheduled home games to Kidderminster due to the flooding, but Giles fears that further damage caused by adverse weather conditions could have long-term implications.

Speaking to BBC Hereford & Worcester, Giles highlighted the financial strain caused by the flooding, stating, “I don’t think we can carry on like this. It’s costing us a lot of money.” He emphasized the need to explore alternative options, considering the recurring nature of the flooding and its impact on the cricket season.

New Road has been Worcestershire’s home ground since 1899, but the increasing frequency of floods, especially in recent years, has prompted discussions about the feasibility of remaining at the historic venue. While Kidderminster has served as a temporary alternative, Giles acknowledges that a more permanent solution may be necessary.

Giles mentioned the possibility of seeking outside investment to build a new facility with world-class amenities, highlighting the current interest in cricket from potential investors. He emphasized the importance of considering all options and maintaining open communication with local councils to explore potential relocation sites.

Despite the challenges posed by the flooding, Worcestershire remains focused on their upcoming fixtures, including their return to New Road on May 24. However, Giles stressed the importance of closely monitoring the weather and assessing the extent of the damage caused by the recent floods.

The club is committed to its schedule, but any further delays in returning to New Road could have significant consequences, particularly with regard to hosting T20 games. Giles raised concerns about the feasibility of relocating T20 matches to Kidderminster and emphasized the need to address these logistical challenges.

As Worcestershire navigates the complexities of managing their home ground amidst recurring flooding, Giles’s remarks underscore the pressing need to evaluate the long-term viability of New Road and explore potential alternatives to ensure the club’s sustainability and future success.

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