Yesterday, responding to Gareth's query on whether I thought we might sign an experienced batsman for number three, I suggested that while on the face of it we could do with one, we already had plenty of batting options.
Assuming that Shiv Thakor and Harvey Hosein bat six and seven in the order (which may or may not be the case), I said that we already had Billy Godleman, Ben Slater, Alex Hughes, Luis Reece, Wayne Madsen, Gary Wilson and Neil Broom - possibly Tom Wood too - for 5 places.
Well, today came the news that Tom Wood has indeed been given a contract for next season, as has Charlie Macdonnell. Both awards were fully deserved. Wood averaged over a hundred for the second team, was their player of the season and played some fine innings for the Unicorns between times.
Macdonnell averaged just under fifty for the second team, after averaging 93 in his short stint with Durham MCCU. In his one match in the first eleven, he made 21 and 35 not out, looking an assured player of good technique in the process.
Both now have the chance to work with the first team squad and the coaches over the winter in readiness for 2017. Wood's aggressive style would make him an exciting option for T20, where he proved his talent and aptitude on several occasions in the summer just past.
Still, that's all for another day and another coach. Each day at present seems to bring news and it is good to see the club moving so proactively.
Sincere congratulations to both Tom and Charlie - you both had an excellent 2016.
Now make it an even more special 2017.
Was hoping we would sign these two lads up. Also officially announced Harry White has left also. Now bring on some new signings. Unless I've missed some announcements I make it Harvey and Davis left of existing players to extend.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mark I had seen that and omitted it in error. Will note today.
ReplyDeleteDavis was one of the first to sign and is engaged to the end of 2018.
Harvey's current deal doesnt end until the end of next summer, so there's perhaps less immediate need for action.
I am sure they will get around to it in good time!
So I take it by the comments that that's all the current squad signed up for next season and we've released all the players we are going to? Now time for a experienced fast frontine pace bowler, a spinner (who can bat would be a bonus) and a experienced top order bat, so I make that 3 more signings in an ideal world, you would have to think that the budget is there after seeing the back of all those 'experienced' pros since April 2015
ReplyDeleteAh wicked Peakfan. I didn't realise about Davis. That's excellent. Yes I am worried Harvey doesn't sign up this winter then we might be in trouble next season. One left ain't bad though. Think we've done well signing up all the talent we have. Good work so far by the club.
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