Midweek musings

Thanks to Andy for pointing out by e-mail that I had omitted David Wainwright from my one-day sides in the last piece on the blog.

I did, but for no other reason than I'd heard he still had a back niggle. This may or may not be true, but I reasoned that if it was the case he could probably live without throwing himself around in the field in one-day games. By the same token, a fit David Wainwright is a very good one-day bowler and would be in there, so I hope that clears that up.

I've had a few e mails from fans who share my opinion that batting reinforcements are required. The problem, as I have pointed out before, is that the players who may well improve our fortunes are already playing for the first elevens of other counties. The  ones who are in the second elevens around the country are generally there for a reason and it would be unrealistic  to expect them to change the fortunes of another side if they were to be signed on loan.

I have no doubt that the somewhat parlous state of our batting is occupying the thoughts of both Karl Krikken and Chris Grant right now, but coming up with a player of substance when we have already spent substantially this year is going to be an impressive trick, perhaps one that is even beyond our outstanding chairman.

More realistically we make do with what we have and try to restore some confidence to the batsmen. Form is a funny thing and watching the IPL has highlighted it with startling clarity. Ricky Ponting dropped himself, as did Adam Gilchrist. Virender Sehwag can barely hit the ball, let alone score runs and these are all great players. Those who are learning the game and are moving up the ladder in the process will have the same struggles that these outstanding names encountered in their youth.

Patience is the key, for them, the club and the fans. Continued hard work will pay dividends and the role of senior players is crucial, but this bunch of players is better than they have showed so far and at some point - hopefully soon - it will click.

Finally tonight, Sussex have made a good T20 signing in Dwayne Smith, an all-rounder of genuine talent, especially in the short form of the game.

If we can pick up someone of international class - whether Martin Guptill or someone else - we will all feel a lot better.

Back soon!