We don’t like cricket… we love it!

This year, Lodders celebrates four years of its partnership with the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) and sponsorship of the PCA Futures Awards.

Since Lodders first joined forces with the PCA to host and sponsor the Futures Awards, there have been three impressive overall winners: Sussex and Leicester bowler Abi Sakande won in 2021, Gloucestershire’s Tom Smith took home the award in 2022. In 2023, 19-year-old Yash Vagadia claimed victory in the Academic Progression category alongside being named the outstanding candidate of the process, whilst Ethan Bamber, Middlesex bowler, won the award for Community Spirit. Also in 2023, Derbyshire wicketkeeper Steve Griffiths took the prize in the Business Impact category, which recognises PCA members’ future personal development away from the pitch.

Reclaiming Purpose

Steve Griffiths captivated the panel with his portfolio of artwork using reclaimed and recycled materials. The 50-year-old set up his business called ‘ACHUB’ (from the Welsh language meaning ‘to save or to rescue’), which blossomed from his desire to save and preserve memories through transforming loved or unloved furniture and giving it a new life and purpose. Steve also creates bespoke and unique pieces of artwork on recycled or unwanted canvases. Steve comments on the process and what it meant to him: “Since being awarded the Business Impact Award by the PCA and Lodders, I have been able to make great strides with my new ecologically minded business, ACHUB. Having a suitable workspace was critical for growth and through my grant, I was able to expand both my workshop and studio space and upgrade and purchase new tools and machinery.”

Steve continues: “Following this, I linked up with an arts charity and Bath Spa University, which has increased both my productivity and personal confidence. I can truly say that without the fantastic support from the PCA and Lodders, I would never have taken these steps and consider myself extremely fortunate. I hope to continue to grow the business and for it to become a full-time operation, as well as mentoring and possibly employing others in the future.”

Lodders will be hosting the 2024 Futures Awards at our Birmingham office, 1 Newhall Street on 10 December. This year, we are elevating the Awards with a brand new format – find out more here.

Supporting the Foxes

Alongside the PCA partnership, Lodders also continues to support Leicestershire County Cricket Club (the Foxes) for a second year. A three-time County Championship winner and the most successful UK club in the T20 competition, Leicestershire Cricket Club has a history of developing young players. It has clear ambition, whilst maintaining a clear commitment to the local community. Earlier this year, the club revealed plans for a £60m redevelopment, which includes transforming the existing Grace Road stadium and creating homes, healthcare, and retail units for the surrounding community.