New cricket correspondent at BBC Radio Leeds

Jonathan Doidge has been appointed as BBC Radio Leeds’ new cricket correspondent to cover Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

Jonathan will take over the commentary mic from Dave Callaghan (known as Cally) who sadly passed away earlier this year.

Born in Horsforth in Leeds, Jonathan has been a regular on the county circuit for a number of years with over two decades worth of experience in sports journalism and broadcasting.

Jonathan said: “I enjoyed many hours sharing the mic covering cricket with Cally. He was a friend as well as a colleague and I understand that he meant a great deal to his listeners.

“It will be both an honour and a privilege to cover my county. I am very excited about what lies ahead. Roll on April!”

Jonathan will cover all County Championship games, both home and away, along with the shorter one day, and T20 matches.

Jonathan added: “There has been a lifelong passion for cricket in my family. Both my brothers represented Yorkshire at various levels and I still play (badly!) when I can. I know what cricket means to Yorkshire people and I have a great respect for both that and the game itself.”

BBC Radio Leeds Sports Editor, Jonathan Buchan, said: “Whilst we will never be able to replace our beloved Dave Callaghan, I hope our listeners will welcome Jonathan in as one of their own. His knowledge of the game and passion for the county shines through and that was a major part in the decision to add him to our team. He already has a strong relationship with the club and the characters that have stood at the crease both in the past and present day.”