Inbox Fatigue

I know it’s the same every year, for every brand, and perhaps I should grow thicker skin. But that doesn’t change how mind numbing it is to be requested for free or discounted bats or equipment every single day of the summer. That’s why it gets rather fatiguing by the time August comes around.

The thing that frustrates me the most is that it’s not as if these people are going to put you on the map. They come on as 12th man to field in a 2s county game, and now they think that means they deserve free or cheap gear. Especially when they come back with, 'I’ve been offered more elsewhere'. Then go with them then! I understand that perhaps a professional needs to maximise his opportunities in what is a relatively short and not always well paid career, but for young kids to request kit and then barter on the percentage is a culture that I would love to see the back of.

Personally, I blame the smaller brands looking for reach for starting this culture. Most of these brands, if they stopped doing these deals and discounts for amateurs, you simply wouldn’t see their kit anymore. This is why I very rarely offer such discounts, and clearly on this occasion I was caught in a weak moment, which I very much regret.

That said, I made what I think was a kind offer, completely ad hoc for me, which was received with the audacity I for some reason didn’t think it would be. I make no apology if I come across as slightly abrasive here, the fatigue is very much real!👇👇👇👇👇👇

Young cricketer
Hello,
I’m 17, an off spin bowler and lower order batter at Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club. I’m part of the Academy setup, playing regularly in the U18 team, and have recently made my debut in the 2nd team.
I was wondering if you would be able to help me out with a sponsorship opportunity for equipment if possible.
Thank you very much.

Me
Hi,
I could do you a 30% discount on our bats, pads, gloves, and bags :)
Let me know.
Cheers,
Sam

Young cricketer
Thank you for the quick response, I have been offered higher elsewhere would you be able to go higher potentially?
Thank you.

Me
No, sorry!

Young cricketer
One last cheeky question,
Are there any pads or gloves you have potentially to give away?
Thank you.

Me
No.