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International cricket star Joe Root to visit University

08/12/2016

One of the world’s top cricketers Joe Root will share his sporting expertise with University of Wolverhampton students through a new partnership.

The University is sponsoring Sheffield Collegiate Cricket Club, where Joe Root’s stellar career started, as part of plans to increase its presence in the city.

Through the new partnership the 25-year-old star will visit the University to meet sports students and provide insights into his international success.

The University is in the process of appointing a new regional officer to be based in Sheffield to provide advice and guidance to potential students. West and South Yorkshire has the most rapid growth in 18-year-olds in the country, so is a key target area for recruitment for the University.

With more than 1000 test runs so far in 2016, Joe Root is currently ranked second in the ICC top 100 batsmen and was named England Test Cricketer of the Year in 2015.

He is currently taking part in England’s tour of India, where the 4th Test got under way at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai today (DEC 8).

Kay Biscomb, Director of the University’s Institute of Sport, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with Sheffield Collegiate Cricket Club, where former England captain Michael Vaughan also began his hugely successful career.

“The University will be sponsoring the Club’s shirts and we’re really looking forward to welcoming Joe Root to Wolverhampton in the future.

“The University partners with a number of local and national sports clubs to provide exciting opportunities for our students to gain experience and also draw inspiration from leading sports stars.

“We’re committed to nurturing sporting talent and ensuring our students have access to the best facilities and experience possible, so we’re thrilled that a world-class cricketer of Joe’s standing will be sharing his insights with us.”

Richard Ibbotson, Chairman of Sheffield Collegiate Cricket Club, said: “The club are delighted to be entering into this new partnership with the University of Wolverhampton.  We are so fortunate to continue to enjoy huge support from Joe Root and Michael Vaughan OBE, as well as Richard Kettleborough, the ICC's leading umpire. Their careers have taken them around the world but they can frequently be seen back at Abbeydale Sports Club, where their sporting prowess was nurtured, helping us to encourage the next generation of young cricketers.  Joe's visit to Wolverhampton will be an event not to miss!"  

Further information

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