Patterson lands Oval groundsman role

Bill Gordon is "one of the top groundsmen in the world today," said Scott Patterson, his successor as head groundsman at the Kia Oval

Scott Patterson has been promoted to the role of head groundsman at the Kia Oval.

The 31-year-old has worked under previous incumbent Bill Gordon, who won groundsman of the year on six consecutive occasions from 2003 to 2008, for the last four years.

Gordon will remain part of the team to offer specialist support in all areas, reporting directly to Surrey’s chief executive Paul Sheldon.

But Patterson will now be the man overseeing things, much to his delight.

He said: “It is a great honour to become head groundsman at such an incredible ground and I am very much looking forward to continuing to prepare for the new season.

“I would also like to take this chance to thank Bill Gordon for teaching me so well over the last four seasons.

“He is one of the top groundsmen in the world today and learning from him has been an amazing experience.”

Sheldon added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Scott and I look forward to seeing him lead our groundstaff over coming seasons.

“Bill Gordon has been a fantastic servant of the club for many years and I am delighted that he will continue to work with Scott.”