Leicestershire v Derbyshire pre-season day 1

Leicestershire 202-12 (Dearden 75, Hudson-Prentice 3-16, Critchley 3-32, Conners 3-48)

Derbyshire 121-3 (Critchley 38* Madsen 29*)

It was a pleasure to watch cricket once more today, on Leicestershire'excellent live stream. Even if the match was of a friendly nature and more about time in the middle than anything else.

Indeed, towards the end of the home innings, I was reminded of watching Zulu, the classic film with Michael Caine, at home with Mum and Dad. Specifically Dad's immortal words, that may well have been used at Rorke's Drift 'how many more of the buggers are there?'

Batting conditions weren't easy this morning and the Derbyshire steamers bowled pretty well, getting the rust from their run ups to a great extent. I thought FHP was excellent, so too Luis Reece, while Matt Critchley will be delighted with his first bowl on a March day. One or two looked more in need of time, but these are early days.

Derbyshire lost early wickets when they batted, but Critchley played beautifully straight and looked in lovely touch off his legs. Meanwhile our hardy perennial, Wayne Madsen, had his feet moving and unfurled the on drive and sweep for the first time this summer. It was, as always, a joy to watch and summer won't be the same when he eventually retires. Let's hope it isn't for years..

Meanwhile, at Derby a largely academy side worked hard against a strong Yorkshire XI. The visitors made 250-7, before we replied with 61-1, Wood the man out and Guest at the crease with du Plooy.

All in all, a good day and workout for all concerned.

Lovely stuff!