THE Worcestershire County League has announced a sponsorship agreement with Crusader Sports & Leisure Ltd.

Crusader, from their new purpose built premises three miles north of Worcester at Ball Mill Top Business Park, Grimley, are Worcestershire's leading supplier of cricket equipment, clothing suppliers to Worcestershire, Middlesex and Durham County Cricket Clubs.

They will become the official league sponsor after signing a three-year deal worth £15,000.

It is the intention of the league to enhance this by applying for Sportsmatch - the Government's business sponsorship incentive scheme.

The County League, set up in 1999, is the largest cricket league in Worcestershire and will now be known as the Crusader Worcestershire County League.

Both the league and its new backers look forward to a mutually rewarding partnership that will aid the development of 64 clubs throughout the county.

This season's action gets under way on Saturday, April 26 when Evesham, newly promoted to Division One, entertain Kington.

This summer, they will renew acquaintances with old rivals Pershore. The two lock horns on Saturday, June 14 at The Bottoms with the return on Bank Holiday Monday, August 25.

- OUTDOOR net sessions for junior members of Pershore CC start on Friday, April 25.

The two-hour practice starts at 6pm and young players aged between seven and 16 are welcome to join an already thriving junior section.

Ring the club on 01386 552856 for more information or just turn up on the night.

- THE prestigious Tornado Trophy indoor tournament takes place at Prince Henry's on Sunday.

The event features some of the most talented under-16 players in the county and the action gets under way at 9am with the final scheduled for 5pm.

Spectators are welcome.