Three lots of news emanating from the County Ground this week, the first for a while.
First up was that the talented triumvirate that is Dan Redfern, Tom Poynton and Atif Sheikh headed off with England Under 19s to South Africa. Talented cricketers all, I hope they will all make a good impression. Redfern looks a certainty to play, while Poynton should get his share of games. Sheikh at just 17 sounds a great prospect as a left arm quickie, playing two years ahead of himself if you will.
After being awarded a contract for next season, Sheikh was described by John Morris as being his "project bowler". Strange then that we now find ourselves short of a bowling coach with the season just over three months away. I would hope that Morris has this in hand, as I'm a little baffled as to how "consultants" can help a young lad finding his way in the game. Mind you, maybe that's where Langeveldt may come into his own...
Then came the news that the square has to be turned at Derby, which seems an eminently sensible solution. I have to say that the temporary solution of a screen on a cherry picker didn't strike me as the safest of solutions if there was any wind about. I'd certainly not have fancied sitting in its vicinity, that's for sure.
Jake Needham must have got excited if he saw the heading "wicket to turn at Derby" but seriously, the club have made the right decision and I just hope that in the relaying of wickets they manage to get some life into them. A few last year were dreadfully slow and made stroke playing and getting people out equally difficult. Keeping them quiet was easier (except Ravi Bopara...) but a little more pace would be enjoyed by batsmen and bowlers alike.
Finally "Lungley in hospital" didn't bode well after the affable Tom's injury-hit 2008. Closer inspection revealed a visit by Don Amott, Lungley, Graham Wagg and James Pipe to Derby Children's Hospital, where they handed out club goodies. A nice gesture by the club, but I just hope that the youngster pictured on the club site playing air hockey with Tom didn't get too vigorous...
I'd love to see Lungley back to full fitness this season. With him, Jon Clare, Wagg and Langeveldt all fit, few sides would fancy batting against us.
Here's to a good (and healthy) pre-season!
Rumours are that Philip DeFrietas might help with the bowlers.
ReplyDeleteTS
I thought he was at Notts? I could see logic in it, but it depends on the basis in which he's working for them.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tip!
hey Peakfan
ReplyDeleteWho do you think Derbyshire should get this summer for the 2009 season?
Also I think John Morris should try to pursue Lance Klusener because he is a world class all-rounder
Also Derbyshire try and attempt to get Saqlain Mushtaq instead of Mark Lawson because Saqlain is a world class spinner and help Jake Needham
Plus I am not impressed with signing of John Morris has made Garry Park and Tim Groenwald
Saqlain??? You think we have money to burn, we need a number 3 not a spinner. It never turns at Derby anyhow
ReplyDeleteDoubt we`ll get LK< we have too many left handers already in the team