When people ask why I felt now was the right time to hang up my boots, the honest answer is that the time simply felt right.
I had slightly fallen out of love with the game, and moving away from cricket felt like the correct decision. Looking back, I thoroughly loved my eight years at Middlesex, a period that spans even longer when including my time in the academy. Playing at Lord’s as my home ground for eight years was a dream come true and something extraordinarily special. Above all, I walked away with an amazing group of lifelong mates who will remain my closest friends for a long time, alongside experiences that will be thoroughly enjoyable to look back on in old age.
As I knew my time in cricket was coming to an end, I began considering what my body might look like in five or 10 years. Realising I was still in pretty decent shape right now, I thought that if there was ever a time to take on a massive challenge, this was it. I had always wanted to do something special to raise money as I stepped away from cricket, and that idea evolved into running 24 marathons in 24 days for two great charities.
”Reflecting on the challenge so far, I’ve learned that while running 24 marathons might seem quite daft at the start, chipping away at it day by day makes it easier and easier."
Jack DaviesFormer Middlesex wicketkeeper
Physically, it has been tough, every time I think I am getting a firm grasp of it, my body tells me otherwise, though right now I’m doing okay. I know I’ve broken the back of it now and the end is in sight.
Speaking to Spencer Matthews recently really helped, he reminded me that you cannot change that total number, but keeping at it day by day makes it smaller until you are suddenly thinking about finishing.
I’m deeply grateful to all the guests who have taken time out of their busy lives to join me along the route, so taking their time to support these great causes is special, and both I and the charities appreciate it deeply. Choosing a favourite guest is a toss-up between Jordan Adams and Spencer Matthews.
Running for the Cricketers’ Trust is my way of giving back and saying thank you to the game after being lucky enough to play professionally for years. Meanwhile, supporting the Brompton Fountain allows me to help a charity with a great vision for people in need, work I saw firsthand through Mark Stoneman and his son Leo.
”Lots of people have been asking about my future career prospects post-cricket, but my focus right now is strictly on getting through these 24 marathons first. I’m keeping my head down for now, as there is still a few more marathons remaining.
Jack DaviesFormer Middlesex wicketkeeper
Make A Donation to Jack’s JustGiving Page
As he attempts to raise £24,000 to support the Cricketers’ Trust and Brompton Fountain.
