Somerset County Cricket Club has officially cancelled their men’s pre-season training trip to Abu Dhabi due to ongoing safety concerns stemming from the tense situation in the Middle East. Instead, the team will head to Desert Springs in Spain, arriving Sunday and staying until March 18.
The revised itinerary includes a two-day red ball match against Yorkshire County Cricket Club, providing valuable competitive practice ahead of the upcoming season.
Head Coach Jason Kerr emphasized that player and staff safety was the club’s top priority: “Given the current events unfolding in the Middle East, it became clear that traveling to Abu Dhabi was not a safe option. Our responsibility is to ensure everyone’s wellbeing.”
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Kerr also highlighted the efforts behind securing the alternative venue. “It took extensive work behind the scenes, but Desert Springs is a familiar and trusted facility for us. We have trained there multiple times before, and they offer excellent conditions for our preparation.”
Though the change results in a slightly shorter trip and less game time, Kerr remains optimistic. “Losing competitive minutes is unfortunate, but our focus will be on making the most of our time on the grass and the red ball fixture against Yorkshire.”
The club extends its thoughts and support to everyone impacted by the conflict in the Middle East during this difficult period.