Talking point

Sarah Taylor is, according to reports in the national press, going to play some cricket for Sussex Second XI next summer.

Let's be clear on the facts here. The player is already, at 23, one of the greatest women cricketers in history. Goodness knows what kind of records she will have set by the time that she retires, because it is patently obvious that she is a shining beacon of the women's game. Her one-day and T20 batting records are excellent and it is fair to say that only her negligible experience of the longer format has thus far prevented her from major contributions.

By the same token, I am not sure about and not comfortable with the idea of male and female sports being combined. If any female cricketer was capable of making the step it would be Ms Taylor, but I have serious reservations. Playing good level club cricket is one thing - and I have played with and against plenty of women who have been decent or better over the years. But the differences in strength and power may prove to be insurmountable obstacles at a higher level, as they would be in most sports.

Back in the county game, Northamptonshire has announced a profit of nearly £23K, a good effort in a fairly wet summer. The financial management  at some of the smaller clubs (including Derbyshire) is an object lesson to all and is again one in the eye for those who seek to reduce the number of first-class counties.

Our title win last summer didn't do any harm either...

Over in Australia, Ross Whiteley has been doing a good job with the Adelaide Pirates, scoring runs and taking wickets. There was an unbeaten 124 against Southern Districts, together with a couple of wickets, while he was again in the runs last weekend. It is heartening as we approach a new season.

Dan Redfern has had a few more issues, with a highest score of just 38, but Whiteley's previous experience in the conditions has undoubtedly been a major factor in his success.

In closing tonight, thanks for your continuing mails and comments, which are always appreciated. There appears to be a lot of interest in the Peter Gibbs series, which is good to see.

More of that next week. More from me soon!