New Zealand cricket team warms up at The Belfry

The New Zealand cricket team took to the world-renowned Brabazon course at The Belfry for some time away from their preparations ahead of their First Test match against England at Lord’s starting next Thursday.

Eleven of their leading players, including captain Brendon McCullum, headed to the famous resort near Sutton Coldfield where they played on the world’s only four-time Ryder Cup venue. 

McCullum said: “The team and I were pretty excited to come and play at The Belfry. Most of us are pretty keen golfers and have watched some of the great Ryder Cup moments unfold here in the past. We just wanted to put our skills to the test - even if we couldn't quite match up to their lofty standards.

“The Brabazon was in fantastic condition though and the greens were rolling fast. It is a good challenge with some superb holes that really make you think on every shot, although I know a few of the boys may have made a few too many visits to the water!

“It has been a great day for the team and what better to place to soak up some English sunshine ahead of the big test against England next week.”

The Belfry is the ideal getaway for any golfing break, boasting a historical 12th century manor house hotel with an array of dining and leisure options, three leading golf courses, including the PGA National - England’s only PGA-branded course, The Derby, and The Brabazon.

It is also includes the impressive PGA National Golf Academy, which Golfmagic attended last season. Click the link for more.

The iconic resort has recently become part of the innovative De Vere Club, the UK’s fastest growing golf membership, which allows members to play at any of the 19 De Vere courses throughout the UK as part of their annual fee of just £325.

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