If you want the full story on just how beneficial Yorkshire’s stay in Potchefstroom will be for their preparations for the forthcoming county season, Tim Bresnan is the man to chat to.
The experienced all-rounder is no stranger to the NWU PUK Sports Village, where he has visited “a few times” throughout his career.
Bresnan, 33, is also fast approaching 20 pre-seasons as a professional cricketer.
“I really do enjoy it here,” said the talismanic star.
“I’ve been a few times now, and you’ve got everything you need facilities wise for a really good pre-season.
“You have a world-class gym and grass nets just out the back door from breakfast. There’s no messing around with jumping on a bus for an hour’s journey to venues. It’s right here and perfect.”
Bresnan was speaking during Yorkshire’s first training session in Potch earlier.
“(Today has) been about getting the flight and journey out of our legs,” he continued.
“It was a long journey, 33 hours or something like that door to door, and you’re sat down for a long time.
“Obviously the back and hips get very stiff. It’s about getting that out of your system and getting into the cricket. It’s a totally different feel being on grass with your spikes on.
“I’ve been lucky enough to get a bit of cricket in the winter, so it’s not as unnatural for me. But a few of the lads will find it a bit funny early doors. It doesn’t take too long to get used to it because it’s ingrained into you.
“It’s nice to have a bit of sun on your back as well. The Northern Hemisphere is not conducive to the game of cricket, so we have to travel in pre-season.”
