Mason settling into life with the Foxes

Leicestershire CCC Head Bowling Coach Matt Mason is already getting used to his new surroundings at the Fischer County Ground.

The 43-year-old could have been forgiven for taking a little time to adjust given this is his first move to a new club in 17 years.

However, Mason has thrown himself into the new role and feels he has arrived at a great time with the winter training programme stepping up in intensity ahead of the start of pre-season proper.

“The first day was about meeting everyone and having a look around, but having played and coached at Worcestershire over the years meant that I recognised the place straightaway,” said Mason.

“Our sessions have been tough, the intensity has been high and we’re going to be one of the fittest and highly skilled squads around if we can maintain that. It was brilliant to be introduced in that way. My first session with the lads was full on and I think it’s best that you get stuck straight in.

“I know what I’m doing and I know some of the lads from before, so although I need to learn more about individuals, I felt comfortable getting stuck straight into a tough session. Speaking to them and spending time in that environment will only help.”

A few familiar faces have helped Mason to settle, so although the club has a new-look coaching staff, relationships are already in place.

“It’s a clean slate,” he said. “It’s my first move from a club in 17 years but I think it’s come at a good time for me. I know Nico [Paul Nixon] well, I first knew him as a player and I admired him as a competitor. 

“I know what Nico is like as a character and he is exactly my cup of tea, full of energy and enthusiasm. I’ve known Sads [John Sadler] and Crowey [Carl Crowe] for a long time and I’m getting to know Tom Smith, so I feel at home already.

“It can be difficult to fit in to a new club but I feel I’ve done that already, not only meeting the coaches and players but also the staff here. I’ve been made to feel very welcome.”

Mason will oversee the bowling unit at the Fischer County Ground and will also take a keen eye on the development of younger bowlers at the club through the age groups and Academy.

He said: “I am very, very passionate about what happens underneath the professional game, from grassroots level - under 10s, under 12s, etc - right through to the professional team. We all have a part to play in bringing youngsters through the Academy into the first team environment. 

“That way the non test match counties can have a sustainable future and can be as competitive as anyone else on the field. 

“We must bring their own players through. We may not be able to compete financially, but we can produce and develop our own players and compete on the field.  It is something I have seen in the past and it has proved to be successful, and I believe we can do that here.

“At one point we had 10 Academy graduates and one overseas player in our side at Worcestershire, but it does take time. We invested heavily in those players over a three to five year period in the Academy and made sure that the professional coaches worked closely with them. 

“We nurtured the young lads and brought them when they were ready for the first team. We identified the talent, helped to shape them as people and players, and then supported them.”

* Stay tuned for the second part of the interview with Matt! Follow the Foxes and join Team Leicestershire for the 2018 season by becoming a Premium Member of the club. For further details on the advantages of joining us, please follow the link HERE