Conners and Melton sign new deals

Good news for Derbyshire supporters today, with Sam Conners extending (and one assumes improving) his current deal until the end of 2023, while Dustin Melton has signed a new contract for next year.

For Conners it was a no-brainer. He is, for me, the most improved seamer on the staff and his ability to knock over early wickets with the new ball will make him a potent force. In two years time there will doubtless be no shortage of suitors for his services, but it is good to see him showing loyalty to the County that gave him his chance.

The case for Melton is less clear cut and he has played hardly any cricket this year, much the same as Nick Potts. As one of our three allowed overseas players, Dave Houghton will hope he is fit enough to play more of a role next year, when he should finally qualify to play 'as a local'.

I think he needs a good year, because plenty of players of talent have found their bodies unable to handle the rigours of first class cricket. When he gets it right he is a handful, but for the peace of mind of Derbyshire supporters he, like the other young bowlers, needs to show it on a more sustained basis.

Finally tonight, the second team will need 169 at Lady Bay tomorrow to beat Nottinghamshire. Sam Conners made an unbeaten 41 to take our lead to 96, before again getting among the wickets. 

New Nottinghamshire loan recruit Sam Northeast was drafted in for a knock in the second innings, but lasted only two balls before Conners pegged him leg before. 

James made 98 and Patterson-White 69 for the home side, but three wickets each for Conners and Alex Thomson left a run chase that should be feasible. 

Fingers crossed! I am happy with wins at any level, especially against you know who...