For McKiernan it is a chance to show himself as more than a talented bit part player, an opportunity to stake a claim as a regular. We know he can bat a bit, bowl some useful leg spin and field brilliantly anywhere, but those disciplines need to kick on now, in much the same way showed by Anuj Dal in 2020.
For Priestley, it is a proper chance to show what he can do. A powerful batsman and developing spinner, he is made for the short forms of the game, but had little opportunity this year to enhance his claims in league and second eleven cricket. A winter of hard work around his studies could see him make the next step in 2021.
As for Wood, it is well deserved and some may say overdue. It is also reward for consistency at all levels below the first - class game over several years. His challenge, if you like, is to show that someone who doesn't look a natural athlete can still score heavily at County level. I am not saying he is fat, as he is some way from that, but he is a powerfully built lad and in an era where whippets are expected, he doesn't conform. Having said that, he has a good pair of hands and showed in two innings at Headingley this year that he is not fazed by status or reputation. He is, in short, a very good batsman.
Tom, Alex Hughes, Nils, Brooke Guest and Harvey Hosein can all stake a claim for a place in the county top six, especially in the four-day game. Then again, with continued development so can Anuj Dal. With such healthy competition Derbyshire can continue to develop as a club. I think we are a couple of seam bowlers light, at present, but that recruitment likely lies ahead over the winter.
I just wondered if there might be interest in Graeme Wagg, who has rejected an offer from Glamorgan to pursue an opportunity elsewhere. While he is of comparable age to Tony Palladino and Ravi Rampaul, he is an experienced all round cricketer who remains in good form, based on last summer. He likely has two or three good years in him in all formats, or could do a Darren Stevens and go on still further.
While not in favour of signing cricketers for one last pay day, as was once our raison d'etre, a return to the club where he made his name might make sense for player and club, if the money was right. We don't have experience among the seamers and an old head with plenty to offer them, as well as lengthening the batting, holds appeal.
We'll see, but as the rain lashes down on our windows, next summer cannot come quickly enough.
Totally agree Peakfan. Good article as always. I just hope we give these youngsters a prolonged chance in the side to continue to develop and perform over the next campaign. I believe all 3 can be strong 1st X1 players, given time.
ReplyDeleteA bit harsh on Tom Wood, as speaking to a few of the lads in the squad, he is one of the strongest, fittest and hardest working members of the squad in training and in the gym. Albeit very much improved in the past 12 months. The need to be an athlete in the modern game is definitely greater than ever!
More than happy for us to bring in the experience in order to support these players, as long as they arent occupying places,which would just be counterproductive. Especially, as you say, they are just signing 1 year deals, so no real benefit to us in the long run.
Steve A (Spondon)
Like I said, Steve, I am not for a minute suggesting he is unfit or overweight! Just big shoulders and a powerful lad who could be a huge asset to us.
DeleteI have no doubt he matches and perhaps beats others in the fitness tests, but he has a lot of physical strength and muscle that makes him look bigger than others.
I wish him, and the others well!
Morning Peakfan, another excellent article. I'm delighted at the recruitment of these three young players. As for Wood, I haven't seen him, but perhaps he can take comfort from Dom Sibley who toured with England last winter, and subsequently lost some weight having watched Stokes etc train. As for Wagg if we can afford him great. He will definitely be an asset in white ball in all aspects of the game. Any news on Milton qualifying to play next year? In summary I thought we had another season of progression despite T20. So well done, Chairman, Committee, Coaches and players. Also well done to you Peakfan, another great year of writing your blog. Thank you. Clay Cross Mark
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