Southern Vipers inspire local youngsters

Ahead of the Kia Super League final on Sunday, youngsters from Southampton and the surrounding areas joined with the Hendy Kia dealership and Southern Vipers players for a fun training session.

Schoolchildren were able to meet and greet some of the biggest stars of the game including Charlotte Edwards, Lydia Greenway and Suzie Bates.

Afterwards, guests were invited to take part in mini cricket lessons with the team and learn more about grassroots cricket.

The Super League, which Edwards' Vipers went on to win by beating Western Storm in the final at Chelmsford, brought together the best women cricketers in the world and the leading domestic talent in a six-team tournament.

And Kia's partnership with the England and Wales Cricket Board was the first ever standalone title sponsorship for a domestic women's cricket competition in England.

"We are very proud to be able to expand on our sponsorship of women’s cricket," Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia Motors (UK), said.

"Being able to support the game at a domestic level within the UK ensures that the future of women’s cricket, and security for up and coming players, is there."

Paul Hendy, chief executive of Southern Vipers sponsor Hendy Group, added: "We have a long association with supporting cricket in the south and we’re delighted to be involved in today’s fantastic initiative, which we hope will inspire even more young people to get into the sport."

Bobby Parks, Southern Vipers General Manager said: "Today’s event is what the Kia Super League is all about - to inspire the next generation of Southern Vipers.

"We’re delighted to have the support of Hendy Kia locally and were glad we were able to do everyone proud on Sunday and make history by being the first team to bring home the trophy!"

© Cricket World 2016