Go on then, hands up. Who thought that when we got to the T20 Derbyshire would be top of division two by 32 points? Even old Peakfan, never known for negativity, didn't think that we'd be top - in contention, yes, but not top by such a margin.
Of course, there's some serious cricket to be played after the slap and giggle of T20 has had its wicked mid-season way with us, but Derbyshire have done remarkably well. Four batsmen and four bowlers can all be said to have been convincing thus far, as has wicket-keeper Tom Poynton. Such a level of consistency has been rare in recent Derbyshire summers, when usually we have been reliant on two or three players to be competitive. This has been a genuine team effort so far and there have been contributions of some kind from everyone who has played in the side.
The team spirit has been critical and the fragile camp at the start of last year has been replaced by a side in which eleven players take the field with common purpose and commitment. There have been a number of comments around the circuit about the positive "vibe" around the County Ground, one that encompasses the committee and the playing staff. Much credit has to go to Messrs Grant and Krikken for fostering it and promoting an environment in which players can go out and express themselves.
The proof, as they say, is in the pudding.
Tomorrow we play another CB40 game at Horsham and I'm again less than confident in a result. Partly because I think we will take an opportunity to rest players ahead of the T20, and partly because Sussex are a good side, especially at the one-day format.
I hope we give a good account of ourselves and I look forward to seeing what Rana Naved does on his debut, but the emphasis in the coming weeks will be on the T20 and we will undoubtedly put everything into that competition. It could after all, make a huge difference to our finances and the possibilities of close-season recruitment.
Because next summer, at this rate, we will be playing with the big boys...
We are in a very good position in the Championship. Better than I thought we would be doing. We have some tough matches ahead,but then so do Yorkshire and Kent. THEY have to play US.
ReplyDeleteIf the forecast proves correct,the trip to Sussex will be nothing more than that. Not really worth commenting on a game that has little chance of taking place.