He had an excellent first season with Derbyshire last year, taking 24 wickets at 36 in ten first-class appearances and a record-breaking 26 wickets in fourteen T20 Blast appearances. He also contributed useful runs down the order and showed himself to have a safe pair of hands in the field.
It was good to see him refer to an area where he - and others - can improve this summer, by improving the economy rate. At times we gave away additional runs with a loose ball an over, which lessened the pressure being applied to batters at one end, often by Anuj Dal.
As well as all of the new signings over the course of the winter, it has been especially heartening to see the core of a strong established staff have extended their deals.
Everything is very encouraging right now, with one more piece of the jigsaw - the filling of the other overseas role - to go.
Like a few of you I watched the opening weekend of the PSL and there were some excellent games, admittedly on wickets that largely favoured batters. Mohammad Amir looked the class act we know he is yesterday, bowling his four overs for just 29 runs in a run-fest. Equally impressive were two players I have mentioned previously , Mohammad Wasim Junior and Abrar Ahmed. It is unlikely to be this season, but I fully expect both to be picking up county deals in this country before too long.
Less than fifty days to go...
I reckon Amir is a level above any other T20 pace bowler we have had. Potentially a game changer for us.
ReplyDeleteBowls key overs during the power play and at the death. Let's hope he stays fit.
Agreed, Jasper. Langeveldt and Rampaul were both fine bowlers, but just past their prime. Ferguson was excellent, so too Zaman, but Amir is at his peak. A very fine bowler in control of his game. His fitness will be crucial
DeleteI think Amir is the signing I'm most excited about seeing. Hopefully a huge player for us
ReplyDeleteQuestion about Amir when did he last regularly play red ball cricket?
ReplyDeleteHe had a short stint with Gloucestershire in 2022 and before that was at Essex in 2019
DeleteThat's my point he's hardly played any red ball cricket for years let's hope is body is still robust enough for four day matches
DeleteI think his workload will be closely monitored and I understand that he could play up to five of nine f/c matches in that time. I doubt he will bowl 25 overs an innings and hope he doesn't have to with more bowler friendly pitches than recent seasons...
DeleteFantastic news and could be one of the best signings over the winter. I feel could offer good competition in red ball too. Is it only Sam in terms of regular 1st team players that are out contract at end of 2024?
ReplyDeleteYes, I think so
Delete