There's something for everyone with ICT this winter

As the nights draw in, the temperatures fall, and the leaves begin to turn, it signals the end of another cricket season here at home.

Titles are being decided across the country, but attention is already shifting towards the highlight of the months ahead: the Ashes.

September – Ireland T20Is

We begin with three T20Is in Ireland this September.

England are taking a strong squad, so there should be plenty of competitive cricket on display. And if the matches themselves don’t quite satisfy your appetite, there’s always the option of a visit to the Guinness Brewery: an experience I’d highly recommend.

October – New Zealand White-Ball Tour

October sees us travelling to New Zealand for a white-ball tour. As autumn settles in here, spring arrives there, making it the perfect time to visit.

New Zealand is a country I never tire of: each city feels unique, each cricket ground has its own character, and the scenery – from rolling hills to rugged coastlines – is breathtaking.

I’m especially looking forward to the scenic railway journey from Hamilton to Wellington, which captures so much of the country’s natural beauty. In Christchurch, we’ll also take to the historic tram for a tour that includes a three-course meal, offering both excellent food and a poignant look at how the city has evolved since the earthquake in 2011.

Stopover in Malaysia

Being in that part of the world also provides the perfect opportunity for a short detour.

I’ll be heading to Kuala Lumpur and Penang in Malaysia for a little rest and recovery. A few days of R&R will ensure I’m in top condition to welcome all of our guests to what promises to be a thrilling Ashes series.

The Ashes – The Main Event

The Ashes remain the centrepiece of the calendar. Beyond the cricket, the schedule also offers the chance to explore: visits to Bali and the Great Barrier Reef are sure to create unforgettable memories as we recharge between Tests.

On the field, I believe England may hold the edge with the bat, while Australia’s bowling strength gives them the advantage in that department.

Injuries, as ever, could play a decisive role. It has been since 2011 that we last won an Ashes series in Australia, so anticipation could not be higher.

I, for one, can’t wait — and I’m delighted to be sharing this incredible tour with so many of you.

Looking Ahead – Sri Lanka 2026

In January 2026 we will finally be returning to Sri Lanka. Our last visit was in January 2021, and though we were due back the following year, Covid sadly prevented it. Since then, I’ve had countless requests for details, reflecting just how popular this tour is.

This will undoubtedly be a fantastic trip.

I expect the nucleus of the current squad to feature, using the series as preparation for the World Cup in Sri Lanka and India. The final is scheduled for Eden Gardens in Kolkata, though if Pakistan qualify, it is likely to be staged in Colombo instead.

Spaces remain limited. I very much hope to see many of you joining us.

🚶‍♂️ Sponsored Walk for Diabetes – 28 September

On a personal note, at the end of this month I’ll be taking part in a sponsored walk: more than ten miles across eleven bridges on the Thames, raising money for diabetes. This is a cause that touches so many lives, and I’m keen to raise as much as I can.

I’d be delighted if some of you joined me at the finish line, and I’d like to sincerely thank everyone who has already sponsored me.

If you’d still like to contribute, there is a link available — but please don’t feel any pressure. For me, it’s as much about supporting a vital charity as it is about building stamina for the tours ahead.

You can donate here.

✉️ Final Word

There truly is something for everyone this autumn and winter: competitive ODIs in Ireland, a scenic and memorable tour of New Zealand, a restorative stop in Malaysia, the drama of the Ashes, and finally, the long-awaited return to Sri Lanka.

I look forward to sharing these adventures with many of you in the months to come.

All the best,

Gary