For the past few seasons, I have watched closely to see any signs of deterioration in eye, technique or commitment. Truth be told, there is hardly any. No thickening of the waistline, no reduction in the output of runs, no lessening in the safety of the hands at second slip. The hair may be a little grey at the temples (speaking as one who would love hair at my temples..) but Wayne, like a fine wine, gets better with age.
His three innings so far this season have brought 236 runs, with a century and 96 among them. He still looks imperious at the crease and so far his feet, hands and eyes seem to be in perfect coordination. He remains the most prized wicket in the side and the man most feared by opponents. That has been the case pretty much since he first joined the county in 2009.
What a servant he has been! With the way the modern game is going, it is fair to say that we are unlikely to see his like again.
I am just thrilled that we have at least two more seasons to enjoy his contributions to the team and the club.
He remains one of the nicest blokes you could wish to meet and I am sure that sentiment is echoed by anyone who has come into contact with him.
Fabulous, fabulous news.
Absolutely delighted with the news this morning, although I am of the firm opinion that hair is overrated at my age
ReplyDeleteAndy
Fantastic news.
ReplyDeleteNice job from the media team reeling us in with “that” video too, good practice for the day he finally does finish his playing career.
Brilliant news indeed.
ReplyDeleteSilly me. I really thought this could be his last season. Why don't they just give him a 10 year contract now.
ReplyDeleteI also found a video on youtube. Around 4 mins 40 in you may see someone familiar.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDniQqC4_kI&ab_channel=hockeyvideos
Great News.
What an inspiration Wayne Madsen is.Wouldn't it be great if we could win a trophy with him before he retires. Topspinner
ReplyDeleteGreat news!
ReplyDeleteAfter the initial ‘teaser’ video I must say I felt an incredible wave of sadness wash over me, assuming he was announcing his retirement at the end of the season. However, half an hour I felt the complete opposite. Yes, Wayne has been the most incredible performer on the pitch over well over a decade but I think what says more about him is the way everyone talks about him. He comes across as an absolutely wonderful human being and I for one am so very proud to that he represents Derbyshire. Congratulations on the new deal, Legend, I’m delighted we’ll get to see another season of you.
ReplyDeleteChris in Shropshire
And so say all of us malbar
DeleteAbsolutely fabulous news. We're very fortunate to have had Wayne at the club for so long and I'm grateful to have seen him play for us. Keep on keeping on !
ReplyDeleteWonderful news. As well as his brilliant batting and safe hands in the slips and qualities of leadership, two other things stand out to make Wayne a unique individual. Firstly, his devotion to Derbyshire.
ReplyDeleteDespite other counties making frequent attempts to lure him away, he has stayed loyal to Derbyshire. And secondly his modesty. I saw him sitting with his young family a few years ago on the bank in Chesterfield after being dismissed and he chatted happily to any spectator who approached him. A true Derbyshire legend!