Lace deal opens a door for someone

Like most of you, I entertained hopes that Tom Lace would be back in Derbyshire colours next summer.

His full season with us, on-loan from Middlesex, contained several innings that confirmed him as a player to watch. At 21, international recognition is very much on the agenda for a talented and stylish batsman and affable young man.

His season was curtailed by a nasty hand injury, but I know how much he enjoyed his time at the county.  It was patently obvious in every conversation I enjoyed with him over the summer. So too the friendships that he built up among the squad.

Signing a new deal at Middlesex would therefore have been a decision to think about. Yet a new administration, presumably guarantees of opportunity and a three-year and appropriately remunerated contract swung the deal for his home county. He had been there from the age of ten, so loyalty came into it too, of course.

Nor should we discount the fact that international recognition is more likely at a southern county than at Derbyshire. We may not like that, but the journalists who will 'push' a player's case are more likely to be present when they don't have to travel to do so.

I wish him well. He is a lovely, friendly lad with a ready smile and a shared love of dogs. I will watch his progress through next season and beyond with great interest and wish him all the luck in the world. The talent is there and I suspect the mental toughness is too, having already registered first-class centuries to dismiss one psychological barrier. 

As for Derbyshire, there is opportunity for someone. I understand that budget had been set aside for signing Tom, had he been available. That could now be spent on another batsman, unless Dave Houghton decides to go with what he has and elevate Anuj Dal or Fynn Hudson-Prentice in the order. 

Might it be for Tom Wood? All I know is that when we lose Reece, Madsen and du Plooy from the batting for the new competition, it leaves us short in that area.

Perhaps we will take someone on loan again? Maybe, but counties will be aware of the need for cover, at least for the RLODC.

We will see what happens in the new year. 

Between times, all that remains is to thank Tom for his time at the club. His style reminded me of a young Ian Bell when he was at his best, which was often. 

Don't be surprised if his career follows a similarly impressive trajectory.

And be proud of our part in his development. 

Go well, Tom.