Worcestershire County Cricket Club launched its 2025 season in unforgettable style on Wednesday 16 April, at its ‘Big Night In: Live’ event. The evening served as a vibrant celebration of cricket, community, and connection, with the unveiling of the club’s new Rapids kit, which was introduced by four extraordinary local community heroes, chosen for their outstanding contributions to the region.
The event took centre stage at the historic Visit Worcestershire New Road, where each community ambassador, who was selected to represent one of the club’s meaningful values of trust, inclusiveness, kindness, and resilience, debuted the 2025 kit and were each presented with a cheque for £500 to support the brilliant causes they’re involved with.
Among the ambassadors was Lesley Fage, who has dedicated the last eight years to spreading joy and comfort through her therapy dogs, Aero and Casper. Visiting hospitals, care homes and schools across Worcestershire with Therapy Dogs Nationwide, Lesley has brought emotional support to countless individuals, particularly children and those facing mental health challenges. Her embodiment of kindness made her the perfect figure to help launch the new season.
Joining her was Ben Rafiqi, who spent 10 months living in his car and turned his own experience of homelessness into a mission to help others. Through initiatives like Let’s Feed Brum, the Tabor Living Shelter, and work supporting Radiate Redditch and a food redistribution programme, Ben has become a trusted advocate for the most vulnerable, a living example of the value of trust.
Also recognised was Paddy Crump, a passionate youth mentor and mental health advocate. After overcoming his own battles with anxiety and depression, Paddy founded The Hero Project to empower young people across Worcestershire to build self-belief. His story is one of courage and transformation, a powerful symbol of the resilience the club celebrates.
Finally, Tenbury’s Carol Ludwig was honoured for her grassroots environmental work and community leadership. Following the loss of her mother, Carol channelled her grief into founding Keep Tenbury Clean & Green, turning a solo litter-picking effort into a thriving volunteer community movement. Her inclusive spirit and determination to unite her local community perfectly represent the club’s value of inclusiveness.
Joe Tromans, Commercial Director at Worcestershire County Cricket Club, comments: “This wasn’t just about launching our new kit, it was about launching a season in a way that reflects who we are as a club. Our community ambassadors represent the very heart of this county. By shining a spotlight on their work, we’re showing the world that the club is built on more than just cricket. We’re built on values, connection, and pride in the people who make this place really special.”
Hosted by comedian and TV personality Paul Sinha, the Big Night In: was streamed to supporters around the world via the club’s YouTube and social media channels, giving thousands the chance to share and celebrate the occasion with the club.
Attendees at the event included club staff and board members, as well as members of the club’s men’s and women’s teams and main front shirt partners Attivo, Pluxee and the EBC Group, alongside guests representing all of the clubs 78 corporate partners. The night was a huge success with 170 guests from across the UK attending to kick off and celebrate the club’s season in person.
Joe adds: “It was a fantastic evening to share virtually with our supporters and celebrate with players, staff, and valued partners, all of whom play a vital role in helping us grow as a club both on and off the field. Events like this are part of our continued effort to create meaningful, memorable moments that connect us with our supporters and reflect our commitment to the wider community. We’re proud to lead the way in delivering unique experiences that bring the community closer to the club, while celebrating the people and values that make Worcestershire special.”
The evening wasn’t just the launch of a new kit and season, it was also a powerful reminder of Worcestershire County Cricket Club’s enduring role at the heart of the community. From supporting local causes like Worcester Foodbank to championing inclusive access to cricket by supporting the Worcestershire Cricket Foundation, the club continues to serve as a force for good across the county, leading with purpose, pride, and a genuine commitment to making a difference in the sport and the region.
Stephen Harper, Chairman of Club Partner Attivo, said: “The event was a real celebration of everything the club stands for, innovation, community, and heart. Spotlighting local heroes in such a genuine and creative way was not only moving but a reminder of the deeper impact sport can have beyond the game. We’re proud to support a club that leads with purpose.”
Graham James, Commercial Director of Pluxee added: “Worcestershire County Cricket Club always brings a fresh and thoughtful approach to everything they do and having community ambassadors launch the kit was a truly inspired idea. It was a privilege to be part of such a meaningful and memorable night.”
Richard Lane, Chairman of the Clubs IT & Technology Partner EBC Group said: “It was a brilliant evening to be part of. The community ambassadors were truly inspirational, and events like this are exactly why we’re proud to partner with Worcestershire County Cricket Club.”
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