Interview with Worcester County Cricket Club Vice Captain

Daryl Mitchell
When Daryl Mitchell started playing cricket as a youngster, the idea of becoming a professional was just a dream.
 
But thanks to a scholarship scheme with the University of Worcester, Daryl is now Vice Captain of Worcestershire County Cricket Club (WCCC).

Daryl studied for a sports studies degree at the University from 2002-2005, combining his academic work with his passion for cricket, through the University’s unique partnership with WCCC.

“The scholarship was definitely my stepping-stone onto the Worcestershire first team,” he said. “It allowed me to continue my studies and to train with the team.”

Daryl inherited his father’s love of cricket and started playing for Worcestershire Under 11s as a youngster. He then rose through the ranks and at the age of 18 applied for a scholarship with the University.

“I wasn’t good enough to play professional cricket when I was 18, I needed more experience, and I also wanted to carry on my education,” he said. “So the scholarship was the perfect way for me to combine the two.

“The support I received from both the University and the Cricket Club was fantastic. If I needed time to study then the Cricket Club would allow that, and if I had to play a match the University would give me time and support to do that.”

Daryl made his debut for Worcestershire County Cricket Club’s first team while he was finishing his degree, and after completing his studies he started his professional cricketing career full time.
Last year Daryl was named as the Club’s Vice Captain.

“The scholarship scheme was fantastic and I would definitely recommend it,” Daryl said. “It gave me the skills and support I needed to pursue my dream career.”