Sutton Coldfield cricket fan enjoys Ashes screening with Darren Gough

Cricket legend Darren Gough joined Sutton Coldfield local Richard Daniels, 59, and other die-hard cricket fans for a traditional British breakfast and a pint to celebrate the start of the second test of The Ashes.

IT consultant Richard Daniels, from the West Midlands, was given the opportunity of a lifetime courtesy of England Cricket sponsors Greene King IPA, to watch live the first day of the second test match alongside his son’s hero and former England cricketer Darren Gough, at what was described as a “money can’t buy experience”.

Richard, who is a Junior Chairman at Four Oaks Saints Cricket Club, was joined by 19 other die-hard cricket fans, who had all been nominated by their loved ones, via a special social media competition. Darren gave his fellow cricket fans his insight into the match as well as stories from his experience of playing world class cricket.

It was an exhilarating but sleepy start for Richard who drove to London at 4:30am to be at the venue, which was fully equipped with an abundance of England cricket memorabilia in full support of the England team currently in Australia.

The Barmy Army contributed heavily to the dulcet tones of the England chants and some stray Australians managed to infiltrate the breakfast menu with a selection of Aussie snacks.

Darren Gough said: “As a former England cricketer, I love being at the centre of the action with the fans. It’s great that Greene King IPA, want to share the experience of the Ashes with some true supporters of England Cricket. Best of luck to England and let’s even up the series!”

Life-long cricket fan, Richard was excited to finally meet Darren Gough after hearing stories about Darren from his friend who used to play at Barnsley Cricket Club with him. “Darren used to play for Barnsley – a good friend of mine used to play at the club with him and I had always been told stories about Darren. He was chatty, friendly and knowledgeable. It was good to talk to someone who’s been involved.”