WORCESTERSHIRE County Cricket Club today announced a major sponsorship deal for an undisclosed six figure sum with Chinese home appliance manufacturer Haier.

After backing the County in the Frizzell County Championship and Cheltenham & Gloucester Trophy last season, Haier become full team sponsors this year.

New Road commercial director Tom Sears said: "Our initial partnership with Haier last season proved a huge success and we are delighted the company have decided to increase their commitment to the club and the game of cricket."

Haier spokesman John Graham said: "We see Worcestershire County Cricket Club as an ideal partner which as a progressive sporting organisation reflects the attitudes and principles of Haier."

Meanwhile, Worcestershire seamer Kabir Ali left for Chennai in India today to spend two weeks training under former Australia great Dennis Lillee, as part of the England and Wales Cricket Board's new pace foundation programme.