Derbyshire to take on Falcons title

Chief executive Keith Loring believes Derbyshire's new nickname will strengthen bonds with the local area

Derbyshire are to change their one-day nickname from Phantoms to Falcons from the beginning of next year, the club has announced.

The new limited-overs title is in reference to the famous peregrine falcon which nests on the city of Derby’s cathedral.

Derbyshire’s first limited-overs identity was Scorpions in 1999, changing to the Phantoms six years later in time for the 2005 season.

Peregrines are a rare breed of falcon, so much so that the species was thought to have been close to extinction in the mid-20th century.

Historical records suggest that Peregrines have frequented the ancient cathedral for centuries and they made a spectacular return in 2006.

Since then, they have become a feature of the building and have been the subject of much interest and debate for locals and visitors to the city.

Chief executive Keith Loring said: “The club’s new one-day cricket name’s local significance indicates that Derbyshire County Cricket Club are continuing to support and champion the local community of Derbyshire.

“It will also give us the opportunity to introduce an excellent mascot which will be launched in the build up to the 2010 season.

“With an extended Twenty20 tournament as well as a second limited-overs competition to look forward to in 2010, there will be some exciting action for the Falcons and our supporters throughout the season. Let’s hope that 2010 can be the year of the Falcon.”