Tag: United Kingdom

09/10/202509/10/2025

Somerset County Cricket Club have capped off a season of pride, excitement and record-breaking achievement by lifting the Vitality Blast trophy for the second time in three years.

Their stunning six-wicket win over Hampshire Hawks at Edgbaston marked the culmination of a campaign defined by consistency, resilience and thrilling cricket.

The team won 11 of their 14 group stage matches before defeating Lancashire in the semi-final to book their place in the final, before completing a record chase in a Vitality Blast Finals Day to be crowned champions.

A Winning Partnership

Kukri has been proud to support the squad throughout the season, providing high-performance kits and training wear across all competitions.

Beyond the men’s team, the season was also historic as the inaugural campaign for the Somerset women’s team, showcasing the club’s commitment to growth and excellence across all levels.

Young stars shone brightly, with Thomas and James Rew earning places in the 18-player England Lions squad for this winter’s tour of Australia, further highlighting the depth of talent at Somerset.

Leadership and Experience

Captain Lewis Gregory, who also guided Somerset to Blast glory in 2023 and is the club’s all-time leading T20 wicket taker, reflected on the special achievement.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling. Winning it in 2023, having not been T20 champions since 2005, was incredibly special.

“It takes so much hard work and belief to even get to Finals Day, so to stand there with the trophy again is a huge moment for everyone involved.”

Gregory’s experience and leadership were key in navigating high-pressure moments throughout the tournament.

“My job is to stay calm and give the lads clarity, especially in those crunch situations. It’s about making smart decisions under pressure and giving the younger guys the confidence to express themselves.

“This group makes it easy because everyone backs each other completely.”

Key Moments in the Final

The final itself was packed with drama and decisive moments, with Gregory highlighting the contributions that helped swing the match in Somerset’s favour.

“Will Smeed’s innings gave us the platform we needed, and Sean Dickson’s knock kept the momentum going at a crucial stage.

“Those partnerships, along with some sharp bowling in the middle overs, really turned the game in our favour.”

Gregory also made his mark on the field, taking a wicket against Hampshire in the final.

“Finals are about big moments, and as a bowler, you dream of contributing in those situations. To take a wicket in the final, especially given the stage and what was at stake, was incredibly satisfying.”

Performance and Pride with Kukri

Kukri’s kit was an important part of the players’ preparation and performance which contributed to the triumph.

“The Kukri kit has been fantastic all season, both in terms of comfort and quality. It represents Somerset brilliantly and gives us that extra bit of pride when we step out onto the field.”

Squad Depth and Culture

The historical triumph reflects the depth, character and culture of the Somerset squad.

“We’ve built a squad full of talent,, but also full of resilience,” Gregory said.

“There were times this season when different players stepped up every single time. That shows the depth we have and the culture that’s been created at the club – one where everyone knows their role and plays for the badge on the shirt, not just themselves.”

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead to the future, Somerset’s captain is focused on sustaining the momentum and driving further success.

“It sets the standard really. Winning the Blast twice in three years shows what we’re capable of, but it also makes us hungry for more.

“Next year, we’ll be going in with the same mindset – to keep improving and competing for trophies.”

This season has been a testament to Somerset CCC’s ambition, talent and culture – a campaign defined by thrilling cricket, pride, performance and the partnership with Kukri that supports the players in making history.

08/10/202501/10/2025

As part of our ongoing para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports is proud to partner with British Fencing, supplying their training and podium-wear while supporting athletes who are redefining limits.

Among them is Dimitri Coutya MBE, whose story is one of extraordinary resilience, perseverance and achievement.

After a car accident at the age of two left him with a T-4 spinal cord injury and wheelchair-bound, Dimitri discovered fencing as a young boy and quickly revealed his talent, winning two bronze medals at his first two competitions.

Since then, his rise since has been remarkable. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, he secured team silver, team bronze and two individual bronze medals, before making history as the first British fencing athlete to be selected in all three individual weapons for the 2024 Paralympic Games.

In Paris, Dimitri went on to claim individual Foil gold and individual Epee gold, helping Team GB surpass their Tokyo gold medal tally.

Most recently, he added to his legacy with gold at this year’s Para Fencing Championships, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Dimitri shared three defining images that capture the milestones of his journey so far.

Photo 1: My First UK School Games Competition

Dimitri’s first UK School Games competition introduced him to the thrill of competitive fencing. The experience ignited his passion for the sport and set the foundation for a career defined by skill, focus and determination.

Photo 2: Semi-final loss at Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

A narrow 15-14 defeat in the men’s foil individual category B event ended Dimitri’s hopes of individual gold in Tokyo. Yet this heartbreaking loss became a powerful motivator, inspiring him to bounce back with his third bronze medal.

Ever since, Dimitri has never looked back and continues to be an inspiration for para-fencers all over the world.

Photo 3: Becoming Paralympic Champion

Three years after Tokyo, Dimitri achieved the ultimate reward for his perseverance in becoming double champion at the 2024 Paralympic Games.

The moment captured not only the culmination of years of dedication but also the spirit of resilience that defines him as an athlete and an inspiration to others.

Through our para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports celebrates athletes like Dimitri, whose achievements rewrite records and perceptions alike. From grassroots beginnings to the world’s biggest stages, we’re proud to provide the apparel that supports their journey and showcases the brilliance and power of para-sport.

Beyond Limits. Together.

02/10/202501/10/2025

Every athlete’s journey is defined by key moments, the first time they step onto an international stage, the first time they lead a team, and the first time they achieve a dream they have worked for tirelessly.

As part of our ongoing campaign focused on para-sports and athletes, we’re shining a light on incredible athletes whose journeys embody resilience, break barriers and inspire the next generation.

Amy Thompson’s story is one of dedication, perseverance and milestone moments that showcase the power of determination in para-sport.

A promising F41 shot-put athlete and proud Kukri ambassador, Amy has shared three images that capture the moments that have defined her exciting journey so far.

Photo 1: My First England International

Stepping onto the field in England kit for the first time at the Loughborough Pathway International was a dream come true for Amy. Not only did she equal her personal best throw of 7.94m, but she also received the female shotput performance award.

This milestone marked the beginning of her international career and now, just over two years later, Amy made her international debut at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, finishing seventh in the F41 classification.

Photo 2: My First Time Captaining an England Team

Being named captain at the 2024 U20 Home Countries International was another defining moment in Amy’s journey. Leadership is about inspiring others and guiding a team to success, and she embraced the challenge with confidence and determination.

Photo 3: My First Call-Up to the World Para Athletics Championships

Competing at this year’s World Athletics Para Championships represents the pinnacle of Amy’s journey so far. Sharing the stage with her role models and representing her country at the highest level demonstrates the extraordinary results of perseverance and dedication.

Her story continues to inspire others, showing what’s possible when barriers are challenged and resilience drives action.

These three milestones highlight not only Amy’s remarkable rise in para-athletics, but also the spirit of para-sport itself.

As part of our ongoing para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports celebrates athletes like Amy – those who break barriers, redefine possibilities and motivate the next generation.

Beyond Limits. Together.

22/09/202529/09/2025

At Kukri Sports, our mission goes beyond high-quality apparel — we are committed to elevating athletes and giving them the platform to excel.

Whether at grassroots level or competing for international honours, we are proud to support athletes and be a long-standing partner of the para-sport community.

As we launch our new campaign to celebrate these remarkable achievements, we want to shine a light on the journeys and voices that inspire us both on and off the field.

Our commitment is rooted in long-term partnerships with organizations like Team England, British Fencing, British Wheelchair Basketball, and England Athletics, as well as leading educational institutions such as Loughborough University.

Together, we provide technical excellence in apparel while amplifying athletes’ voices, breaking down barriers, and inspiring the next generation

Stories That Inspire:

Amy Thompson – Building confidence and visibility

Our ambassador, Amy Thompson, is a rising star in shot put, recently captaining England at the Home Countries U20 International and earning her first call-up to this year’s World Para Championships on 26 September.

“With the help from Kukri, they have really propelled my career, helping me with not only my kit but my social media presence.

“Without their support, I don’t think I would have as many opportunities as I do currently and that comes down to their support away from sport and really building my confidence.”

Hannah Cockroft CBE – Redefining limits

Nine-time Paralympic champion and ambassador Hannah Cockroft CBE has built her career on pushing boundaries.

For Hannah, wheelchair racing is not just a sport, but a gateway to independence and achievement.

“I’m really proud to be a para-athlete. Wheelchair racing is my freedom. The opportunities that being a wheelchair racer gave me ultimately changed my life.”

Hannah also uses her platform to shift perceptions on para-sport, challenging the idea that wheelchair racing is easy or secondary.

“When you have a disability, you are told more often what you can’t do rather than what you can do.

“I like to use my sport to show people what is possible, and hopefully inspire people to challenge themselves and find out what they can achieve.”

British Fencing – Inclusivity in action

Through partners like British Fencing, Kukri supports athletes who prove that inclusivity is the foundation of sporting progress.

For para fencer and coach Aimee Aronica, fencing restored her connection to the sport she had loved for two decades.

“When I acquired my disability, I felt like I lost my sport. Having wheelchair fencing open to me gave me a way to engage with the sport I have spent 20 years competing in.

“If we as a community can make disability less scary and open up para-sport as a place for everybody, I am hoping our sport can grow and be a place where everybody can achieve their dreams.”

For teammates James Peebles and Wiktoria Mucha, para-fencing is both a test of resilience and a transformative journey.

“Being a para-athlete is about proving that a disability doesn’t define what I can or can’t do,” said James.

“It’s about picking myself up when things don’t go to plan, dusting myself off and trying again, as many times as it takes.”

“Wheelchair fencing has changed my life in more ways that I can ever begin to describe,” said Wiktoria.

“Inclusivity in sport is incredibly important to me as it allows me to feel included and a part of something.

“With the support of those around me, I can do anything and forget about the things I struggle with.”

Looking Ahead

At Kukri, we are committed to supporting para-athletes across a range of sports, ensuring their journeys are seen, heard and celebrated.

In the weeks ahead, we will share content offering a closer look at our athletes’ journeys, highlighting the resilience, determination and talent that makes para-sport so special.

Because for us, it’s about more than sport — it’s about breaking barriers, amplifying voices, and inspiring the next generation.

Beyond Limits. Together.

17/09/202503/10/2025

At Kukri Sports, we are proud to work with some of the most iconic names in sport. This year, two of our partners – British Army Sport and Loughborough University – announced a new understanding, aimed at enhancing sporting opportunities for soldiers at Loughborough campus and supporting the Army’s high performing  athletes, by leveraging opportunities for collaboration within the Loughborough sport ecosystem.

For us, this relationship represents more than a milestone. It’s a celebration of shared values – performance, resilience, and excellence – embodied by both organisations and by Kukri’s own commitment to high-performance sportswear.

Partners in Excellence

Army Sport’s mission is to harness the power of sport to improve physical fitness, mental resilience, leadership, teamwork and recruiting and retention, with a main effort to maximise participation in sport across the Army.  Loughborough is globally recognised for its world-class sporting environment and innovation.

We have been privileged to supply both organisations with bespoke sportswear, helping their athletes perform at their best through apparel designed for both grass roots and high performance demands.

Designed to Perform

Just as the Army and Loughborough push the limits of sporting potential, our sportswear is built to deliver. Advanced fabrics, durable construction, and tailored fits ensure every athlete can perform with confidence and comfort, knowing their garments works as hard as they do.

A Shared Vision

This relationship highlights what we’ve always believed: great things happen when excellence meets opportunity. Kukri is proud to support both organisations as they join forces and continue to inspire the next generation of athletes.

Find out more about the initiative

16/09/202503/10/2025

This year, Rugby School proudly celebrates 50 years since welcoming girls into the institution – a landmark moment that continues to shape its identity as a progressive, inclusive centre of education and sport.

In 1975, the decision to admit girls was bold and forward-thinking. Today, the School is honouring the countless achievements of its female students, both in the classroom and on the field. As Rugby School’s official sportswear partner, Kukri Sports is proud to play a role in supporting these athletes with apparel designed to meet their unique requirements.

At Kukri, we understand that the demands of girls’ sport are not the same as boys’. Fit, functionality, and comfort all play a crucial role in performance, and we work closely with Rugby School to provide kit that reflects this. From ergonomic tailoring that ensures the right fit, to specialist fabrics that support movement and comfort, our female-focused designs empower girls to compete with confidence across every discipline.

Over the years, we have seen Rugby School’s female athletes thrive in a wide range of sports – from rugby and netball to athletics, hockey, and more – proudly wearing Kukri kit that has been thoughtfully created to match their sporting needs. This milestone provides a chance to celebrate not just 50 years of progress at Rugby School, but also the evolution of sportswear and the role it plays in enabling athletes to reach their potential.

Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports commented; “At Kukri Sports, we’re incredibly proud to celebrate this landmark moment with Rugby School. For 50 years, the School has championed inclusivity and excellence, and we’re honoured to support their female athletes with kit designed to help them perform at their best. Partnering with such a progressive institution reflects our own commitment to equality, innovation and empowering every athlete to succeed.”

As we join Rugby School in commemorating this historic anniversary, Kukri is proud to reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and equality in sport – ensuring that every athlete, regardless of gender, has access to kit that helps them perform at their best.

Find out more about Rugby School

12/09/202512/09/2025

Somerset County Cricket Club is all set for its fifth consecutive Vitality Blast Finals Day ahead of Saturday’s showdown at Edgbaston.

With more Finals Day appearances than any other county, Somerset has firmly established themselves as one of the most formidable in T20 Cricket.

The team will be aiming for their third T20 title after previous wins in 2023 and 2005 when they take on Lancashire in the semi-final, followed by a potential final scheduled for 6.45pm.

Somerset reached Finals Day in dramatic fashion, thanks to Sean Dickson’s blistering 71 from just 26 balls, securing a thrilling four-wicket victory over Warwickshire Bears in the Quarter-Final.

Kukri has been proud to support the team throughout their journey this season, supplying high-performance kits across all domestic competitions, as well as tailored training wear to help the squad prepare and perform at their best.

The player perspective: pride, passion and performance

Reflecting on the historic achievement of reaching Finals Day, captain Lewis Gregory said “It’s a massive achievement and something we’re really proud of.

“Getting to five consecutive Finals Days shows the quality and depth we have in the squad, but also the character of the group.

“Every year brings different challenges, but we’ve always found a way to dig in and perform when it matters. It speaks volumes about the culture we’ve built and the drive we all share to bring success to the club.”

Craig Overton reflected on past Finals Days as motivation. “Lifting the trophy in 2023 was incredibly special, but there have also been tough defeats that really hurt.

“Those moments teach you a lot about yourself and the team. Going into this one, we’ll take all those experiences with us and hopefully put ourselves in the best position to go one better again.”

Tom Lammonby added “Everyone’s excited but focused on the job at hand. Finals Day is as much for our supporters as it is for us, and we’ll be doing everything we can to make them proud.”

Pulling on the Somerset shirt is a moment of pride amplified on Finals Day as Jack Leach adds. “There’s a sense of pride every time you wear it. You think about the history of the club and the player who’ve come before you.

“Having top-quality kit makes a big difference too – when you are in a high-pressure environment, you need kit that you can rely on so you can focus on performing for the team.”

Lastly, James Rew, who received his first call-up to the England Men’s test squad in May, reflects on the preparation and what the victory could mean.

“We talk a lot about sticking to our processes and controlling what we can control.

“Finals Day can be hectic, but if we stay grounded and back our preparation, we know we’ve got what it takes.

“To lift the trophy would be massive. It would be a special moment for the players, staff and most importantly, for the supporters who have been with us every step of the way.”

As Somerset heads into this year’s Finals Day, Kukri is proud to continue supporting their journey and wishes them the best of luck at Edgbaston as they aim to write another thrilling chapter in the club’s history.

05/09/202504/09/2025

A few months may have passed since Loughborough Lightning NXT Gen etched their name into history, but the echoes of their inaugural title will still resound.

The NXT Gen League, an U23 competition launched by England Netball and Super League 2.0, replaced the Under-21 NPL League to give young players more opportunities to develop in a competitive, high-quality environment.

For Lightning, it’s a pathway to the Super League squad — one this young team validated by winning the inaugural title by just two points.

A Young Squad Rising

Lightning’s NXT Gen side, largely composed of emerging talent, displayed their skill and resilience.

They secured 11 wins from 16 matches and scored an impressive 918 goals, overcoming early challenges when key players Niamh McCall and Hannah Diamond were sidelined with season-ending injuries.

The squad’s round 13 victory over Leeds Rhinos proved pivotal, showing that even a young team can deliver under pressure.

For many players, the league isn’t just about winning – it’s also an opportunity to grow, develop and gain valuable experience in a competitive, professional environment.

Empowered by Kit and Culture

Throughout the season, the team was supported by Kukri Sports, who supplied the high-performance dresses and training wear to help the squad perform at their best.

Captain Millie van Nierop reflected: “The kit from Kukri certainly played a huge role in us being able to be crowned champions.

“The kit we’ve been supplied across the season has been super comfy and allowed us to be ready to compete. I think it sets a culture piece for us to ensure that we all look like a team and united together.

“We feel part of a bigger picture with the vast Kukri kit can provide and across a range of sports, we feel part of the bigger Kukri family.”

Leadership and Growth

Van Nierop, who plays centre and wing defence, highlighted the team’s development throughout the season.

“My personal season highlight was probably beating London Pulse the second time we played them.

“There was so much growth in the team on and off the court, that it felt extra rewarding to complete our goal of being better every time we played the team the second time around.”

She also emphasised that the achievement was collective. “Every single person who trained with us played a part in our win.

“We set really clear goals at the start of the season in terms of culture and we frequently revisited these throughout the season.”

Belief, Legacy and the Pathway

Van Nierop also praised the trust and support that helped the young squad thrive.

“Without our coaches and my teammates I would never be in the position I am today.

“The trust and belief they put into me this year leading this squad on court was awesome.”

While the title is a historic achievement, for Lightning it is also a demonstration of the pathway in action. Young players stepped up, learned from one another and prepared for higher-level netball.

The NXT Gen League provides this experience, ensuring the next generation of players is ready for the step up to the prestigious Super League.

More than Silverware

For Loughborough Lightning NXT Gen, the inaugural title is about more than trophies. It represents culture, resilience, and a future built on youth development — a pathway that will continue to shape the club and inspire young athletes for years to come.

Looking to upgrade your netball teamwear? Get in touch with us today

28/08/202503/10/2025

Kukri Sports is proud to announce a new partnership with Kent Student’s Union, the Students’ Union for the University of Kent, as their official kit and merchandise provider.

The partnership will see Kukri Sports supply a bespoke range of sportswear, leisurewear, and merchandise to Kent Students’ Union’s wide community of students, clubs, and societies. With a focus on quality, custom design, and reliable service, Kukri will support Kent Students’ Union in delivering kit that students can wear with pride, both on and off the field.

As part of the partnership, each club and society will have the opportunity to create and select their own unique designs, ensuring their kit reflects their individual identity and spirit. Students and members of Kent Students’ Union will be able to purchase these items from a dedicated online shop, featuring branded apparel and accessories tailored to the Union’s vibrant community.

Commenting on the partnership, Kukri Sports UK Sales Director, Josh Beal said:

“We are thrilled to begin our partnership with Kent Students’Union, a dynamic organisation that plays such a key role in student life at the University of Kent. At Kukri, we’re passionate about helping students and teams represent themselves through high-quality, bespoke kit and merchandise, and we look forward to working with the Kent Students’ Union community.”

Anna Marfuad (Vice President Sports & Societies) mentioned “Kent Students’ Union is thrilled to be working with Kukri Sports as our new official kit and merchandise provider. We’re excited for our clubs and societies to showcase their identity through high-quality, custom-designed kit, and to help build a stronger sense of unity across our student community. We’re looking forward to working together and seeing our students wear it with pride.”

The partnership is now live, and the online shop for Kent Students’ Union merchandise and kit

VISIT THE SHOP