By Emily Parsons

Last updated at 17:25, Thursday, 17 January 2013

One of England’s top cricketing stars is coming to Cumbria.

Jonathan Trott, named ICC and ECB Cricketer of the Year in 2011, is one of two world-class players who are the face of New Balance’s newly-launched cricketing section.

The 31-year-old was due to arrive at Carlisle train station this morning, before heading off to explore the sporting company’s factory in Flimby, near Maryport.

Liam Burns, business development manager for Europe, Middle East and Asia for New Balance, explained: “We are going into cricket as a brand new global category, producing footwear and equipment.

“We have signed two of the world’s top cricketers – Dale Steyn and Jonathan Trott – to be the faces of the brand.”

“England gave him some time off,” he continued, “and Jonathan didn’t have to go out for the one-day games, so I invited him to come up and see what we do.”

Liam was scheduled to pick up Trott from Carlisle train station this morning, before taking him to the factory to meet some of the staff.

He said that while the factory will not actually be producing the cricket footwear, it was nice for the employees to be able to meet such a key sportsman.

“We’ve got quite a few cricket fans,” said Liam. “Jonathan had quite a good series in India so it will be a great experience to meet him.”

South African-born Trott currently plays domestic cricket for Warwickshire but is one of England’s best batting hopefuls in the forthcoming back-to-back Ashes series.

Liam added: “We are really excited to be welcoming him and it is excellent for New Balance.”

First published at 17:23, Thursday, 17 January 2013
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk