By JMB
August 17 2006

The architects' impression for what Yorkshire see as an "iconic Headingley pavilion" has a roof the shape of a huge batwing. Until now Headingley and Old Trafford have created the impression that the north can't be doing with architecture, something Stewart Regan aims to change. "We are looking to develop in an iconic fashion," he said. "We want people to look at the ground and say: 'That's Headingley.' Until last December, Yorkshire hadn't owned its own ground for 142 years. When you rent a house you don't spend a lot of money on it. The world is now a different place."

Yorkshire's image is changing. Gone are the days of Committee rows, accusations of racism and drunken fights on the Western terrace. Regan confidently consigns it all to history.

"For too many years this club has been riddled with internal politics, it has lost its sense of greatness, had no money and has been criticised for not encouraging Asian talent. Headingley has been slated for a lack of facilities. Its performance has been poor on and off the field. It was all dark and gloomy. Those days are over. I can't wait for this Test to start. People are going to see a new Headingley."


Regan's background has been in the brewing industry and, latterly, with the Football League, where he was centrally involved in the successful rebranding of the First Division as the Coca-Cola Championship. At Yorkshire, he sees potential in the white rose and thinks he can market it in India. "The Yorkshire white rose is one of the greatest brands in cricket. We are currently exploring how we can market it around the world. We are taking the team to India in 2007 to promote the white rose. We even plan to host the Indian Oscars at Headingley. My challenge is to get Yorkshire to think great again."