Ryan Sidebottom takes time to explore New Zealand

The ‘Rob-in Hood’ to the Barmy Army, there is no doubt left hand pace bowler Sidebottom is the English hero of the test series in New Zealand so far. With 16 wickets in hand, the 30 year old could break the series record of 19 wickets in the final test beginning this Saturday 22nd in Napier, Hawkes Bay.

Taking some time out from his busy training schedule to relax in Hawkes Bay, Sidebottom says his favourite place to play cricket so far has been Auckland, during the One Day Series.

“Auckland was great for socialising, eating and drinking. I love the Viaduct area with all the great restaurants and cafes.”

But he says his favourite experience overall has been spending time with his girlfriend in Hawkes Bay. “I really enjoyed visiting the Mission Estate Winery in Hawkes Bay with my girlfriend. It was a terrific spot, a very romantic setting and a great place to unwind.”

With a dressing room nickname of ‘Sexual Chocolate’ thanks to his flamboyant hairstyle, away from cricket, there is no fuss about him. A low maintenance man he says he has enjoyed the ‘laidback’ feel of New Zealand.

Sidebottom hopes to include a visit to adrenaline capital Queenstown in the South Island in his next New Zealand trip. “I have heard from other players who have been here before that Queenstown is a fun place to go and there are lots of outdoor activities you can do there, so I would love to visit there in the future.”

For further information visit Newzealand.com or for more information on Hawkes Bay see Hawkesbaynz.com.