Further thoughts on Langeveldt...

While I was washing the dishes earlier (yes, I'm a domestic God, just ask my wife - ha ha!)the realisation dawned that Langeveldt's absence for the FP Trophy will possibly mean that we could play that tournament with no tail whatsoever. Let's just revisit that side with Charl out:

Chris Rogers
Dan Birch
Stuart Law
Wavell Hinds
Garry Park
Greg Smith
James Pipe
Jon Clare
Graham Wagg
Tim Groenewald
Jake Needham

Considering Needham boasts a first class average with the bat that is close to his age (22) and Groenewald boasts FOURTEEN sixes in his 200-plus List A runs, we bat all the way down. John Morris may opt for the control that a fit Tom Lungley brings to the attack but he can also bat and could be accommodated by shuffling the order with perhaps Greg Smith opening with Chris Rogers.

Let's also not forget that Dan Redfern isn't in here. A bold move may see Morris open with Redfern and Rogers. Surely the best young batsman we have produced since Kim Barnett would benefit from time to play himself in, while potentially sharing the crease with two outstanding Australians? The extra responsibility was the making of the young Barnett and we can't leave this young tyro languishing in the Seconds for too long. Let's get him in and see how he goes.

Finally I spoke to my mate last night who plays for Scotland having grown up and played his early cricket in Brisbane. He told me he'd bowled at Stuart Law in Grade cricket and reckoned he was one of the very best players he'd ever bowled at and that his bat when he was in full cry looked the width of a door. Considering he played against the best in the last World Cup that is quite an accolade

And for someone who has watched enough Derbyshire players over 40 years apparently batting with an iced lolly stick, that was quite reassuring...