Derbyshire County Cricket Club is ‘bowled over’ by The Stay Company

What used to be a two-day task searching for suitable accommodation for players at Derbyshire County Cricket Club is now a two-minute phone call – thanks to the club’s partnership with serviced accommodation specialist The Stay Company.

Dan Wheeldon, Operations Manager at the Incora County Ground, says finding decent houses or flats to rent for visiting players used to be an ‘almost impossible and time-consuming job’.

But since using a selection of the serviced apartments from The Stay Company, he says his players are the happiest he’s seen them – and they’re playing better cricket!

Dan said: “I cannot tell you how much of a headache it was trying to find suitable accommodation for our players before we teamed up with The Stay Company.

“In the past, searching for suitable houses or flats to rent near to the Incora County Ground for visiting players (especially overseas visitors) was nigh on impossible.

“Even if we could find a suitable property, we had to buy furniture, sign up to all the utilities like gas, electric and water, and sort out Wi-Fi. I had to do all of this before players arrived and then I’d be cancelling everything, and moving furniture, when they left. Honestly, it took hours and hours of my time.

“Now I pick up the telephone, call The Stay Company and book one of their premium serviced apartments.”

Pakistan international cricketer, Shan Masood Khan, and former professional Sri Lankan cricketer, Suranga Lakmal, are recent guests at The Stay Company, which has its headquarters in Derby.

They both stayed in open-plan luxury apartments in Derby, and the self-contained flats provided a perfect base for these players.

Dan said: “It’s just no-fuss, flexible and really smart – that’s how I describe the city-centre apartments. They’re spacious and private and have good Wi-Fi, fully fitted equipped kitchens and relaxing living areas.

“The premises are also secure, with car parking, professional housekeeping, and a 24-hour phone support.

“All these things are important to us when placing guests in suitable accommodation. And if they’re happy – we’re happy,” he smiled.

Dan remembers being invited to The Stay Company to view one of its Derby sites before booking players to stay in the serviced apartments.

“Honestly, it was like a breath of fresh air,” he said.

“The apartments were contemporary and spacious, clean, and well laid-out and the kitchens were a big plus too.

“When we have players here for prolonged periods of time, they really need more than just a hotel room. They need a good living space where they can relax, feel safe and looked-after.

“For me, I know all my guests will have everything they need and that’s why The Stay Company works for us.

“The partnership I have with The Stay Company is so positive. I would like to thank the team for working with us so well here at Derbyshire County Cricket Club.”