The off-spinner hails from Staffordshire and sprang to prominence with good displays for them in the Minor Counties. He has never really had a run in the Birmingham side but has contributed with runs and wickets when he has had limited opportunity. He has been economical in his T20 and RLODC displays and also contributed important runs.
He had a spell on loan at Durham at the start of the season - not the ideal time for a finger spinner to impress - and with his contract at Edgbaston up at the end of the summer, he now has a chance to impress nearer to his roots.
Derbyshire will lose Matt Critchley, along with Wayne Madsen and Luis Reece, to the new competition. They will be able to look at Thomson alongside Mattie McKiernan between now and then, to see who offers the better option moving forward.
I like McKiernan as a player, but the jury is out on whether he can take wickets at first-class level, rather than being an occasional bowling option. That he can hit a long ball and is a very handy one-day cricketer is beyond doubt, but I am unsure if our resources enable us to carry single-format players on the staff.
Thomson may or may not be the answer, but by the end of the season we will be in a position to make an informed decision.
I wish him well.
Heart in mouth moment when I read "Derbyshire will lose Matt Critchley..." Thankfully you're only talking about a temporary loss, rather than leaving for another county. At least for now.
ReplyDeleteLooks useful, I think he could be quite handy actually. A couple one day 50s suggest he can bat and his economy in t20s is good.
ReplyDeleteI think Critch and McKiernan are both leggies aren't they? So Thomson's off spin will add further variety.
A very useful all round player who gives the side a better balance with some much needed variety in the attack. A shrewd signing I'd say.
ReplyDeleteHe works with our club in South Staffordshire so as you suggest Derbyshire would be a good long term option for him so he should be keen to impress.
He had a really good match in the Royal London Cup game in 2019 - Warwickshire's best player on the day. Surprising that he hasn't kicked on - but worth a gamble.
ReplyDeleteHe had a really good match in the Royal London Cup game in 2019 - Warwickshire's best player on the day. Surprising that he hasn't kicked on - but worth a gamble. Cricket
ReplyDelete