The Northern Superchargers have announced the appointment of two new board members to join their strategic team.
These hires are part of a tactical move that aligns with the team’s primary goal of continually growing their fanbase within The Hundred and building a wider and more diverse audience.
Neel Rajani and Mark Alford join as Independent Board Members, who will work alongside Kirsty Bashforth, Chair of Northern Superchargers. Their combined expertise in sports strategy, media and digital innovation will be instrumental in pushing the competition forward and ensuring it resonates with traditional cricket enthusiasts as well as new audiences.
Since its inception in 2021, The Hundred established itself as a key cricket tournament in the UK and has captivated fans with its dynamic format and entertainment value.
Neel Rajani brings a wealth of experience from his role at Portas Consulting, a global management consultancy specialising in sport. With a decade of experience spanning across Europe, Middle East, and Asia, Rajani has developed corporate strategies and designed digital and data operating models for a wide variety of clients in the sports industry. He is also recognised as one of the sport industry’s ‘Under 30 Next Generation Leaders’. Rajani’s governance and strategic planning skills, coupled with his leadership in global sports projects, will make him a valuable asset to the Northern Superchargers.
Joining alongside Rajani is Mark Alford, who has already had an accomplished career in media – previously serving as Head of Digital for Sky News. Alford is now Director of Sky Sports News with remit for the TV channel and the teams who publish content to Sky Sports’ social media channels, apps and website, leading a team of nearly 300 journalists and media professionals. His deep understanding of digital and social media, combined with his experience in covering major news events, positions him perfectly to enhance the visibility and engagement of The Hundred. A passionate cricket fan and former player, Alford’s insights will be crucial in promoting the competition and connecting with fans.
Mark Alford : “I am delighted to join the Superchargers team. The Hundred is taking cricket to new audiences, creating new fans and players. I want to use my skills and expertise to help amplify that in Yorkshire and the north-east. I grew up there and really benefited from playing and being associated with the game there.”
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new hires, Kirsty Bashforth, Chair of Northern Superchargers, said: “We are incredibly excited to welcome both Neel and Mark to the Northern Superchargers board. Their impressive backgrounds and passion for cricket align perfectly with our vision for the Northern Superchargers through our focus on energy, community and inspiration. Neel’s strategic expertise and Mark’s media knowledge will undoubtedly bring huge value in an exciting upcoming season for us and as part of The Hundred competition overall.”
For more information about the Northern Superchargers and The Hundred, visit thehundred.com.
