So we now have Messrs Whiteley, Palladino, Clare and Durston signed up on three-year deals, plus David Wainwright on a four-year one. That's half a side sorted out quickly and professionally by Derbyshire, doubtless with improved deals for several others to follow. It is indicative of trust and support in talented young players who should continue to thrive when free of contractual worries.
The signing of all four was effectively a no-brainer, with Durston , the senior professional and vice-captain, a key signing. In two and a bit summers he has scored around 4,000 runs for the county and taken seventy wickets. The runs have been made in the most attractive of styles, the wickets often taken when we most needed them, while Durston fields well anywhere but with brilliance at slip, where he takes catches that some might not consider chances.
Like his team mates he has espoused the merits of the team and it is wonderful to see the enthusiasm and positivity that emanates from the club. After years of being also-rans, Derbyshire are enjoying their time in the sunlight. A bright young team has lots to offer and I would expect to see the likes of Wayne Madsen, Dan Redfern and Tim Groenewald on improved deals before too long.
Then it will be a case of when we sign new players. I am sure that Derbyshire will by now have held preliminary discussions with several players with a view to moving to the County Ground. Where it goes from there is down to those players and their agents.
As I wrote back in early September, division one Derbyshire is a more appealing prospect for players than the division two equivalent. A tight financial situation will legislate against our signing big names, as few players will move for less money, unless they have no other offers. I think that we will see another batsman, perhaps Billy Godleman, an overseas batsman and perhaps one more seamer. Over and above that, any moves will be dictated by increased sponsorship money.
I've seen reference to a potential return for Usman Khawaja, but I don't see it at this stage. For one thing, Khawaja could yet make the Ashes tour party with a good Australian summer, while I don't think that his shortcomings at one-day cricket are in his favour. We need a batsman who can play all formats with equal panache, supplemented by another of boundary-clearing potential for the T20. Khawaja is a very good player in the long game, but has much to learn over the shorter distance.
A tough ask, but for continued progress it's what we need. Third bottom in the top division would be a worthy effort next summer, any more than that would be remarkable.
Improved one-day performances, especially in the T20, would be a further indicator of progress.
Oh... and save something special for the game against Scotland up here, lads.
I fully agree Peakfan. Those who have been awarded new deals are all deserving of such and it,s pleasing the players themselves see their future at the County Ground.
ReplyDeleteThings are beginning to fall into place and if we sort the opening slots,another seamer and the overseas player out in the near future,we can all put our feet up and wait for Spring to return.
One thing is for certain. The club is run in a much more professional manner than I can ever remember and credit for that goes to the Chairman and Krikken.