Sheffield Cricket Lovers' Society Year Book 2026

5 February 2025 Daryl Mitchell Former Worcestershire batsman, PCA Chief Executive Daryl held his first mini bat in his cot and recalls watching Tests on TV at four years old. Blame Dad, a decent club opener, whose son would go on to forge a 16 year career before heading up the PCA as Chair, and now CE. As a junior player at both Warwickshire CCC and Aston Villa there were options, but cricket was his choice when Worcestershire offered a scholarship. It coincided with coach Tom Moody becoming a major influence on his development. He met his future wife on the very day he notched his first senior century, against Somerset in 2006; the more important event was disclosed at the time (shh!). Somerset suffered again three years later as he became the first (still only?) player to be dismissed for 298. Yorkshire’s own Adam Lyth pipped him for England recognition and Daryl retired in 2021. Having been Worcestershire's PCA committee representative since 2009 and chairman since 2017, his new working life was effectively a progression. He expanded the role to the benefit of around 600 county pros, dealing with welfare, insurance, contract advice, and a helpline. Staff work on a geographical basis and provide a support network - and a vital common voice - for players in changing times. Salary levels are a good example. In our county game ‘Rookies’ earn £20,000, full contracts range from £28,000 to £130,000 (average £55,00). at the crease SPEAKERS 2024-25 by Andy Pack Proper career in cricket Finding his niche 12 February 2025 Alastair Maiden Head Coach, Birmingham Phoenix Ali’s career pathway was not a well trodden one; he selected Durham University as much for the coaching and mentorship available there from former England batsman, Graeme ‘Foxy’ Fowler, as for gaining a degree. But there was no subsequent progression from University and Minor Counties cricket. It was enjoyable enough but not career defining. However, stints coaching kids for the University and then - now properly qualified - Durham CCC Academy brought the lightbulb moment into view… “It was fantastic. There was phenomenal talent, a production line bringing through the likes of Stokes, Wood, Borthwick, Carse and Jennings. I was also doing batting sessions at Loughborough for the Women’s national squad, including Charlotte Edwards and Sarah Taylor.” Eureka! In 2017 England Head Coach Mark Robinson invited Maiden to join him in Sri Lanka for the Women’s World Cup. It was virtually an interview on the job, and a successful one too as England won the trophy, and Ali a permanent coaching role. After Covid he answered Otis Gibson’s call to become batting coach at Yorkshire - “How could I say no?” - and helped a “fabulous group of staff and players” to promotion in 2024. For good measure he played his part in London Spirit’s successful Women’s One Hundred campaign. A season later he is now Birmingham Phoenix Women’s Head Coach in the same competition. Relaxed and honest, Ali had us hooked, evidenced by a lengthy Q & A that was both frank and intriguing. 31