Academy To Make Maiden Appearance At Uptonsteel County Ground

Leicestershire County Cricket Club has announced a historic moment for the Club and its Academy, with Leicestershire U18 Boys set to play at Uptonsteel County Ground for the first time in 2025.

The groundbreaking fixture, set to be a 50-over match, will offer Jigar Naik’s young Foxes the opportunity to experience the first-class playing facilities at the iconic Grace Road venue.

Next summer’s fixture is the latest instalment in the Club’s drive to enhance opportunities for younger cricketers, after Leicestershire U18 Girls made their maiden appearance at Grace Road last summer.

Following in the footsteps of the likes of Rehan Ahmed, Harry Swindells, Ben Mike, and Josh Hull, the U18 Boys have enjoyed a hugely successful season in 2024.

Led by Liam Tew, the Academy reached the semi-finals of the County Cup, while the side narrowly missed out on winning their ECB U18 Championship group “ missing out on top spot by a single point to Lancashire.

Jigar Naik, Head of Talent Pathway, expressed his excitement about the announcement, stating: "It will be an honour for the Academy to make an appearance at the Uptonsteel County Ground.

“This opportunity will provide invaluable experience to our young players, helping them understand the journey and what it takes to become a professional cricketer. It’s a significant step in their development and further enhances the Academy’s ability to produce Leicestershire and England stars."

Sean Jarvis, CEO of Leicestershire County Cricket Club, added: "It's excellent that another part of our cricket pillar can enjoy the wonders of playing at Uptonsteel County Ground.

“Our Academy has an incredible track record of producing exceptional cricketers, including England players like Rehan Ahmed and Josh Hull, so it’s only fitting that we give them this experience. It's great that we are making history, and we look forward to building on this initiative in the future."

The Club has also announced that the historic Academy fixture will be included in the Club’s 2025 Membership+ package, as well all Women’s and Second XI fixtures at the ground.

Early Bird Memberships, which are now on sale, offer fans the chance to be part of this unique event, along with access to a wide range of cricket fixtures and 14 reciprocal arrangements throughout the season.

Membership income directly supports the development of the Club’s teams across all levels, including the first XI, second XI, and the new women’s and girls’ Tier Two cricket programmes.

To purchase a 2025 Early Bird Membership, click HERE.