Saturday comment

So we're launching "Freddie" the Falcon tomorrow in Market Square at Derby, alongside all kinds of promotional activities.

Anyone know if falcons qualify to play in the T20? Just a thought that we could sign Charl Langeveldt, stick him in the costume and... hey presto - a new top bowler!

Anyway, hope it goes well and you can't fault the club's commercial arm, which is more innovative than at any time in my experience. Years ago, promotional work was what they called getting miserable people to sell programmes and scorecards. The club have gradually come into the 21st century and it is good to see.

Still not sure how Essex got out of jail against Holland yesterday, when the Dutch needed just six off the last over yet contrived to lose by a run. Fair play to Wright for a tight over, but you'd have thought two established batsmen might have got them. That the two were still in at the end of the over suggests that there might have been an element of playing for the average. I know I'd be annoyed in such a situation.

Lovely day up here, so off out somewhere to soak up some sunshine. News of Monday's team sometime tomorrow, but for now, that weather is way too inviting to be indoors.

See you soon