Groundstaff Win Recognition At Grounds Manager of the Year Awards

Andy Ward and his team have earned special recognition for their one-day pitches at the 2024 Grounds Manager of the Year Awards.

Held at Trent Bridge on Tuesday afternoon, the team were presented with a commendation award by the England & Wales Cricket Board in the One Day category for their outstanding pitches in limited overs cricket.

The 2024 season produced some thrilling contests at Uptonsteel County Ground, with Leicestershire securing final over T20 victories over Worcestershire, Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire, while clashes against Glamorgan and Hampshire also went the Foxes’ way after going down to the wire.

This year’s award follows outright successes in the category in 2013 and 2017, while Andy and his team were joint-winners for the preparation of their four-day pitches in 2022.

Commenting, Head Groundsman Andy Ward said: “It’s a huge honour to accept this award. We always endeavour to create pitches capable of facilitating entertaining cricket and we received numerous compliments from both home and away players on the standard this summer.

“When you’re up against Test venues with greater resources, you have to punch above your weight and find innovative ways to improve. Awards like this demonstrate just how skilled and committed the team is.”

Andy was also recognised by his peers for his outstanding service to the industry, following the completion of his 40^th season at Leicestershire CCC. An incredible milestone.

Congratulations to Andy, Simon Brown, Callum Lewin, Mark Smith, Callum French and Dan Wilkinson for their phenomenal work throughout the 2024 season.