The news breaking this afternoon through the Cric Buzz website that Derbyshire are keen to bring South African all-rounder Vernon Philander to the county is very exciting.
The all rounder is one of the best new ball bowlers in the game, as evidenced by around 180 Test wickets at 21 each. At 32 he is at the height of his powers, as he showed with his six second innings wickets as he bowled South Africa to victory in the first Test against India last week.
He has come through a sticky period of injury and, according to the website, early discussions have been positive.
Of course, nothing is sealed at this stage and neither a deal is finalised nor permission granted for him to play here by the South African cricket authorities. This could be declined, or they could put stringent limits on what he plays that makes a deal unrealistic.
The thought of Viljoen, Philander, Rampaul and Davis/Palladino in the same attack is a mouth-watering one, however and we must hope that first of all the story is true, then that Derbyshire can get it over the line in a manner that makes the signing worthwhile.
Well worth keeping an eye on!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend.
He was someone I mentioned on another thread assumed would be out of reach. Ina concerned about his injury record and heard someone commentating once saying he’s a bit of a hyprachondriac so fingers crossed if we do sign him he is fit
ReplyDeleteCertainly would be a bit of a coup if we signed him. I have heard former SA captain Graeme Smith questioning his fitness record... and the 'reasons' for it...
ReplyDeleteIf the Philander deal doesn't eventuate, I wonder if Marcus Stoinis, an outstanding all-rounder in white-ball competitions, would be available.
ReplyDeleteAn excellent summary of the reasons for England's demise Down Under and some really good suggestions for improving the county schedule. It's ludicrous that so little Championship cricket is played at weekends and in the middle of the summer.
Incidentally,I wonder if a swimming-pool similar to the one at the Gabba could be installed at Derby. It could attract a few extra spectators in early April.
Stoinis is a good player, Old Supporter, but hasnt played enough international cricket to qualify to play here.
DeleteThat pool could be a winner! And they could host the Dancing on Ice tour in April and May, as well as it being a good plunge pool for the players at the end of the day...