IG and the England and Wales Cricket Board announce launch of Net Gains
Electronic trading major IG and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) today jointly announced the launch of Net Gains, a new campaign that will raise funds to build cricket nets for community use in the five cities hosting Ashes Tests this summer.
As part of the programme, IG and the ECB have committed to invest in new public net facilities, in locations across the country, via the IG Net Gains fund.
Matchday goers will be invited to help build up the Net Gains fund by stepping into the IG Net Gains Arena at Ashes venues – a cricket simulator equipped with cutting-edge augmented reality technology. Each fan will face six famous deliveries from Ashes history, including the late Shane Warne’s ‘ball of the century,’ with every run they score translating into a contribution to the IG Net Gains fund.
IG will also produce video content which shines a light on the unique and essential role of cricket net facilities in shaping the fortunes of cricketers at every level of the game.
Matt Macklin, IG’s regional CEO said:
“IG believes in levelling the playing field, whether that is on a cricket pitch or by supporting people in pursuing their financial goals. We know that having the right opportunities and tools in life can be a game changer – and we are doing our part to help make that happen. Through the IG Net Gains fund, more communities will have access to invaluable practice facilities, helping more people to improve their skills and develop the confidence they need to excel.”
Now entering its third year as an Official Partner of England Cricket, IG is collaborating with the ECB to help make cricket the most inclusive sport in the country.
Last year, IG teamed up with cricket charity, Chance to Shine, to support their flagship Girls Leadership Programme. The programme, which helps young girls to become future leaders through the transformative power of cricket, was part-funded by a donation from IG Group’s Brighter Future fund.
Bruce Cruse, Director of Facilities at the ECB said:
“This summer is shaping up to be one of the most hotly anticipated of recent times and it will be an incredible opportunity to inspire the next generation. We are delighted to be partnering with IG on the Net Gains Fund, which will ensure that this year’s Ashes series create a genuine legacy across identified communities and provide facilities that will help to nurture and develop young talent into the stars of the future.
“The IG Net Gains Arena promises to be an unmissable matchday addition for anyone heading to an Ashes Test Match this summer. We can’t wait to see how fans get on, facing some of the most memorable balls from this iconic series.”