Sadler can't wait to get stuck in

New Leicestershire Second XI Coach John Sadler can’t wait to get stuck into his new role in the New Year.

The 34-year-old was appointed into the position in November and has already spent some time with the Foxes players on their winter programme.

Sadler will then be starting full-time in January in a career that he has relished since his playing days came to an end.

He said: “When you’re playing you’re in a bubble and everything revolves around that, but then I got the buzz for coaching. I really enjoy everything it throws at you; the challenge, expectation and a bit of pressure, and it’s good to work with other people as well as players.

“I finished playing in 2010 and have always enjoyed the coaching element of the game. I enjoy working with people, and I get a real buzz out of helping people at any level. I finished my ECB Level 4 and being involved with cricket at the highest level is a privilege.

“All of the experiences you go through as a player shape you both as a person and a coach. I learnt some of the good stuff and also some of the stuff where I thought ‘I might have done that slightly differently.’

“Nobody has all of the right answers, but if you’re willing to listen, learn and adapt, then you have half a chance.”

Sadler has enjoyed speaking with Head Coach Pierre de Bruyn so far and will be reunited with Graeme Welch, a coach he knows very well from his time at Derbyshire.

He is also looking forward to working with Leicestershire CCC Academy Director Andy Siddall as the club look to continue to bring through talented young players.

“I’m excited to work with Pierre, we chatted about the vision for the future and it really impressed me,” said Sadler.

“I’ve got a lot of time and respect for Graeme as he has played a very influential part in my development as a coach. Pop (Graeme Welch) is good at challenging me and has also supported me. He’s a good man and a fantastic coach. I’m always willing to learn off people who are willing to learn as well, so I’m excited to work with Pierre and Graeme.

“I know Graeme well from my time at Derbyshire. I started with the Second XI there, was promoted to Assistant Coach, and then through circumstances did the Head Coach role for four or five months.

“I loved it all, there were different challenges and responsibilities but in terms of the learning curve, it was fantastic. I have good memories from my time at Derbyshire and wish them every success but now it’s all about the next chapter.

 “Andy Siddall is a super coach, I know him a little bit already, and it will be good to work with him in the Academy.

“It’s very important that the Academy-Second XI-First XI transition is as smooth as possible and the Academy have to mirror what the Second XI and First XI do. Leicestershire have always had a good conveyor belt of talent coming through and it’s important that they’re nurtured and guided in the right direction.”

* In the second part of the interview with John Sadler, the Second XI Coach talks to us about his playing memories at Leicestershire CCC and his hopes for the future.

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