Edgbaston's New Head Groundsman

Warwickshire County Cricket Club has appointed Gary Barwell as the new Head Groundsman in succession to longstanding servant, Steve Rouse.

Gary, who will manage the team of six groundstaff, arrives at Edgbaston with more than 18 years' experience, most recently as Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club's Deputy Head Groundsman at Trent Bridge.

Gary said: "Being made Head Groundsman with overall responsibility for the square and outfield at Edgbaston is a dream opportunity, and I'm looking forward to continuing Steve's work, by providing great pitches at this world class venue for many years to come."

Colin Povey, Chief Executive at Warwickshire County Cricket Club, said: "Replacing a Head Groundsman like Steve was certainly not an easy task. But Gary has good of experience of preparing pitches and knows the process he will face having had experience of a Test Match venue, so was the perfect candidate for this role.

"I would like to thank Steve for all of the great work that he's done over the years and I am pleased he will continue this involvement with our youth teams."