Wayne Madsen excited for Derbyshire CCC’s Abu Dhabi pre-season tour

The squad will fly out to United Arab Emirates on 7th March where they will compete in both red and white ball action against Worcestershire, Middlesex and an MCC Associates XI.

“The guys are looking forward to it,” Madsen said. “The tour is around eight or nine weeks away now and that time will fly by.

“We have been working hard in training to lead up to the Abu Dhabi tour. It will be a significant step towards the new season and it’s great to get some cricket out there.

“It’s very important that we get into some cricket before the start of the season so we can carry the momentum into the summer.

“We had an excellent time in Abu Dhabi last year. The weather is obviously great so it allows us to get in the quality training and cricket that we need, that’s why we go over there.

“It’s a great way to prepare both in terms of getting time in the middle and getting into form. That’s what the tour always does for us and certainly did last year in Abu Dhabi, and we can’t wait to return in March.”

Madsen added: “We are going to have some very exciting games out there for the supporters to enjoy against Worcestershire, Middlesex and also the MCC Associate XI.

“The cricket will be really competitive out there; it’s so important for us to get competitive match time.”

Supporters can join the Derbyshire squad in Abu Dhabi as part of the Official Supporters’ Tour.

The tour package, in association with Etihad Holidays and Sport Arabia, which begin from £1,305 per person, include all matchday tickets, flights, accommodation and transfers.