Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire have had an excellent season. Building on the runners up spot in the last summer the Championship title was secured by the Trent Bridge side in a nail biting rain affected encounter at Old Trafford on the final day of the season. Excellent limited overs performances also followed, with a semi final appearance in the Twenty20 cup and a second place in the group stages of the Pro40. Chris Read and his men, who based their successes simply on the ability to take wickets and dismiss a side, can look back on a year to be proud of.

The fact that England players Graeme Swann, Stuart Broad and Ryan Sidebottom were largely unavailable only serves to highlight the strength, and depth, the Nottingham bowling attack represents. The batting has some way to go to equal this, however as long as wickets continue to fall the likelihood is games will be won.

The side is, however an interesting one and 2010 is unlikely to mark the beginning of a golden era for Nottinghamshire. The average age of the players in the final championship outing was over 30 and the men key in the push to the top comfortably fit into that category. Nevertheless the current first XI is more than capable and shows excellent balance.

Top of the Order - Chris Read

Jettisoned by England Read, like Essex skipper James Foster, has shown that he has considerable ability with the bat. A useful 916 runs at 45.8 have enabled the Devon born wicketkeeper to act as an anchor and show some real spirit, frequently rescuing his side when troubles loomed large. The fact that these runs came from down at number seven and that no batsmen made the thousand run landmark betray a side where the batting needs attention. A succession of overseas batsmen: Hashim Amla (Averaging 75.4), David Hussey (66.5) and Adam Voges (50.8) all plugged the gap, but no lasting solution was really found. The haste with which Voges was called after the departure of Hussey shows that Notts are more than aware of this deficiency.

Best Bowling - Andre Adams

If the Nottinghamshire batting was lukewarm the bowling attack proved too hot to handle. First amongst the proponents here was Andre Adams. The former New Zealand seamer took a hugely impressive 68 wickets at only 22.17 and was undoubtedly the extra factor which gave the Kiwi's side the edge over competitors. Ably supported by vice-captain Paul Franks (41 wickets) and one test wonder Darren Pattinson (31) the Adams led attack was superb throughout.

Rising Star - Alex Hales

Although not an opening batsman by trade Hales has performed well at the top of the order. His punchy style has set down good foundations, although a solitary century in his 677 season runs hint at a lack of continued substance. However Hales has made a promising start to his professional career and at only 21 has both a lot to learn and to offer.

A Year to Forget - Charlie Shreck

The quick has found it hard to secure a place in the first team this season. His five first class games generated only 18 wickets. The departure of Ryan Sidebottom and continued absence of Stuart Broad may lead to further opportunities, although an approach from Somerset could see the Cornishman best serving his interests by moving to south.

Star Player - Andre Adams

Top wicket taker in the first division of the County Championship Adams has been at the top of his game this season, although at 35 the strains of age may mean that he will struggle to maintain this fantastic summer. Adams has not only served to effectively bowl his side to the title, but in restricting opponents has also made up for the problems with the batting line up.

Northamptionshire

Mid table finishes in all competitions is a little disappointing for the side two points short of promotion to division one of the Championship and Twenty20 semi-finalists in 2009. Northamptonshire are suffering from the same complaint as a number of other county sides; simply floating, with no real sustained progress or real points of purpose. The Wantage Road side will have been looking to build on last season, but have failed to do so. Indeed had they attained those extra two points and competed in the top tier it is highly likely they would now be contemplating whether relegation could have been avoided. That may be a pessimistic prognosis and the greater onus could have spurred them on, although that does seem unlikely.

Northants have, however developed a growing commitment to young players and largely shed the label of a club dependent on overseas aid and 'Kolpak' cricketers. Perhaps youth can reinvigorate the team as it starts the slow process building a side for the future.

Top of the Order - Stephen Peters

Peters continues to be a constantly reliable presence with the bat. Tipped for great things with a century on first class debut at only 17 he has not received the recognition he looked destined to achieve. Nevertheless Peters remains a class act and it is not by accident that he notched up a hugely impressive 1,296 runs at 48. By far the most successful batsman at Wantage Road, Peters simply had no support. South African all rounder Andrew Hall did his best to lead from the front with 696 runs, but failure from the top six meant this was largely to no avail.

Best Bowling - Jack Brookes

The Oxford born seamer, instantly recognisable by an interesting choice in head bands, has made a good impact since a rather expensive debut against the Australian tourists last July. Perhaps not destined for international honours Brookes has shown promise with 34 scalps and has every chance to become an established, reliable county cricketer.

Star Player - Stephen Peters

Largely carrying his side throughout the season Peters was able to notch up a career best 199 opening the innings at Lord's in June. He will look to continue the fine form next summer, as will Northamptionshire as greater support is sought.

Middlesex

Middlesex have failed to make any real impact in domestic cricket this season. This inability to push on can really been attributed to the absence and inconstancy of senior players. Andrew Strauss, Eoin Morgan and Steven Finn have all been away for much of the summer on international duty. Former England star Owais Shah has failed to provide the volume of runs expected of such a talented individual in the second division; aging off spinner Shaun Udal has had a troubled season which saw him resign the captaincy; former Surrey opener Scott Newman did not really make an impact until the latter half of the season and former West Indian quick Pedro Collins was restricted to only ten first class appearances. Under new skipper Neil Dexter the side will hope to develop in this area.

However there are is by no means a hopeless situation facing the Lord's side. Young players have really grasped the opportunity to show their ability. Wicketkeeper John Simpson (22) has kept well throughout the summer, Dawid Malan (23) continued his work with the bat and young bowlers Toby Rowland-Jones (22) and Finn (21) have made great moves forward. With the arrival of the prodigious Chris Rogers (Derbyshire) and Corey Collymore (Sussex) a real base has been set down.

If this excellent array of talent is supported by the established members of the side next season the North London side have every chance of becoming highly competitive in all forms of the game.

Top of the Order - Dawid Malan

Malan first rose to prominence with some sterling Twenty20 performances for Middlesex during 2008, not least an impressive 103 off 51 balls against Lancashire. But he has shown this season that he is not simply a 'hit and hope' merchant, but a cultured middle order batsman. The only player in the side to surpass one thousand first class runs (1001 at 38.5) Malan has done well in a season dominated by the bowlers. At 23 he has both the time and ability to become the mainstay of the Middlex batting order and has successfully challenged the 'old pros'.

Best Bowling - Tim Murtagh

The ever reliable Tim Murtagh has been the only established player to really hold his own. Picking up 38 wickets at a slightly disappointing 38.97 Murtagh and his right arm swing have really kept the side in contention. With 60 victims in 2009 he will look to improve on the tally for next season, but in a year when none of his team mates have done all that well the value of such a seasoned county cricketer has really been underlined.

Rising Star - Toby Rowland-Jones

A driving force in a Leeds/Bradford UCCE attack Rowland-Jones made his Middlesex debut against Oxford University in May. He picked up only two second innings wickets but has not looked back since. His ability to restrict the free flow of the bat is highlighted by the miserly average of 19.11 for his 36 championship wickets and he looks a real star for the future. With former New Zealand quick Iain O'Brien likely to be leaving Lord's and an England central contract for Steven Finn, Rowland-Jones will have every opportunity to really make his mark on the Middlesex attack next summer and continue his excellent start.

Star Man - Dawid Malan

The reliability Malan in a struggling side has been invaluable. He will be disappointed with a dip in the limited overs form with which he made his break through into top flight cricket, however he a has a great base to build on. The departure of Shah brings both greater responsibility and opportunity to the South African educated batsman.

Leicestershire

Issues off the field, which culminated with head coach Tim Boon leaving the county, have largely overshadowed what good work has gone on at Grace Road this season. New captain Matthew Hoggard has steered Leicestershire, who finished rock bottom of the County Championship last season to a position where, going into the final game, they had a (mathematical) chance of promotion. Limited over success did allude the side, but real progress has been made and the future looks hopeful.

Much of this optimism can be attributed the strategy Leicestershire have embarked upon. The side once criticised for on over reliance on 'kolpak' players to swell the ranks has begun a transition to home grown talent. Ackerman and Dippenaar left at the end of last season. It is certainly a decision which has been good for the game and a brave move when the poaching of talented products of the youth system (notably Stuart Broad) by bigger clubs is considered.

The side is young, with many key players in their twenties. Certainly they have a great deal to learn about their own game and professional cricket as a whole, however if nurtured well the side has every chance to blossom.

Top of the Order - James Taylor

Making one thousand runs for the second successive season the young Taylor continues to advance. A further double century helped add 1,027 runs at almost 45 to an already impressive CV. Taylor is developing into a very special cricketer.

Best Bowling - Claude Henderson

One of the few remaining South African imports in the Grace Road dressing room, Henderson has highlighted the value of a seasoned spinner in a line up where much of the youth bowling talent is of the seam variety. His 56 wickets at 21.05 have really kept his side in contention.

Rising Star - James Taylor

A vast volume of runs which have often been scored as others collapsed around him, Taylor has shown both ability and growing maturity this summer. An England Lions call up is surely only the beginning here.

Star Man - Matthew Hoggard

After leaving his home county in less than happy circumstances Hoggard has excelled with the ball, showing to all that he is by no means a spent force. The swing bowler took a further 50 first class wickets, taking his career total to over 700. Questions about is suitability as a captain may have also been raised but, with his own blend of character and determination Hoggard has led from the front.

Lancashire

Once again Lancashire have failed, once again to make a serious bid for a trophy. Mid table finishes in all three formats of the game betray a side which has a worrying tendency to simply drift through a summer. At Old Trafford victory in the Twenty20 finals day mascot race will have to suffice in terms of silverware. Perhaps 'Lanky' the giraffe ought to be drafted into the first XI.

Failure to push on is, perhaps due to a static side. Lancashire have the services of some good cricketers to call upon. But perhaps 'good' is all many in the side are. Bar the perpetually absent James Anderson Lancashire have no players really pushing for international honours. Rumours have often surrounded Sajid Mahmood, but in all fairness there are probably a number of other talented bowlers higher in the pecking order likely to keep the quick in Manchester. The mainstays of the side; Chapple (36), Chilton (33), Horton (27) and Keedy (35) are all more than capable, but (with the possible exception of the captain) aren't really exciting cricketers. Similarly they are not pushing Geoff Miller for a 'phone call. With strong league cricket in the county, which has a large catchment area the club could be doing far more to promote and seek young talent capable of giving Lancashire the cutting edge they need to really be in contention.

The red rose county is more than capable for performance beyond the present mediocrity. With the dependable Luke Sutton (33) released to give the young wicketkeeper Gareth Cross an extended first team run, perhaps former England boss Peter Moores is beginning this transition.

Top of the Order - Steven Cross

The batting at Old Trafford has probably been over reliant on the overseas aid, particularly received from Ashwll Prince and Shivnarine Chanderpaul. Nevertheless Cross has grasped the full season he has been given to make 883 valuable runs at 38.39. Unfortunately he did not not add to his solitary first class hundred but he has nevertheless been a dependable presence in the order.

Best Bowling - Glen Chapple

The captain has certainly led from the front this season, despite being forced to sit out a number of games because of injury. His 14 championship outings have generated 52 wickets at a cheap 19.75. Bowling with real aggression, particularly against the old foe Yorkshire, Chapple has shown that he is always willing to fight for the side he has represented since his 1992 debut.

A Year to Forget - Stephen Moore

A move from Worcestershire last season looked a positive one for the England Lions opener looking to advance his game and push for greater international honours. However that progress has stalled this season. With the 426 season runs at average of only 25.18 Moore will look to improve on the stats from the nine championship fixtures he appeared in. Two limited overs hundreds and an average in the 50s do, however highlight his talent and will give Moore something to build on for next season.

Star Man - Glen Chapple

The captain led the side from the front with the ball as well as contributing some useful lower order runs. Chapple was unlucky in his day not to receive England appearances beyond a sole one day international against Ireland but he has continued to show his pedigree for his county.

Kent

The gulf between the first and second divisions of the County Championship is perhaps best illustrated by the fortunes of Kent this season. Champions of the second division last summer, the Canterbury based club recorded eight victories and were the only second tier side to exceed the 200 point barrier. This season they have probably been at best weak. Three victories was not enough to spare the side the drop. This is mirrored in a poor Twenty20 position, with only a third place in the group stages of the Pro40 being cause for (slight) contentment.

Although the claims have been strongly denied there are also rumours of financial troubles at the club. The likely need for cut backs may well harm the club as savings are sought. Second division cricket may, however be a little more forgiving. There is some excellent talent at Kent, particularly with the bat. Joe Denly and Sam Northeast who have shared an opening partnership this season are both exciting cricketers with excellent technique. Northeast particularly has excellent judgement and a good understanding of placement over power.

Perhaps relegation and a tightening of the purse strings will be a blessing in disguise for Kent and allow the side to take a long look at where they are, where they want to be and how to maximise the available talent. A recent quote by captain Rob Key is something which must be drawn upon over the winter - "I don't think it's a case where people are looking to jump ship - they just want to know where the club's going".

Top of the Order - Martin van Jaarsveld

The former South African test batsman has continued the habit of scoring big runs this season, in spite of a number of collapses around him. His total of 1,082 at 41.61 is slightly down on the total of last summer which included an impressive seven centuries. Perhaps like his side van Jaarseveld has found the upper tier a little harder going. His contribution has, nevertheless been invaluable.

Best Bowling - Amjad Khan

That the man to take the most wickets (38) for the south coast side did not have a huge haul reflects the greatest problem for Kent this season, the attack was not really led. Perhaps that is a little unfair, asall of the seamers chipped in but the fact that in the final championship fixture Darren Stevens opened the bowling says a lot. Amjad, who can boast a test cap against the West Indies is certainly a talent, something Sussex have noted as they snapped him up. The move down the coast will hopefully be fruitful for him and it is to be hoped that Kent do a better job in finding a veyable replacement for him than South African Ryan McClaren who they lost at the end of 2009.

A Year to Forget - Robert Key

The Kent skipper has certainly had a poor season. Perhaps the realisation that his international career was, realistically over has weighed heavy on his shoulders. Perhaps a decision similar to that of Vikram Solanki to resign the captaincy after a long spell and concentrate on his work with the bat would be a good move for Key in favour of the sort of young forward looking captain that is coming into vogue in the counties. Either way despite a top score of 261 Key will look to build on the 674 runs he scored this season and come out fighting.

Star Player - Martin van Jaarsveld

Another season, another good year with the bat. van Jaarsveld undoubtedly fits into the dependable Southern African presence with the bat a number of other sides have recruited. If money worries mean the player who's pay packet has warranted some raised eyebrows has to leave the St. Lawrence Ground he will have little difficulty in finding a new suitor. Kent would miss him and look to hold on, however with some quality, English old pros such as Key, Jones and Stevens as well as the youngsters, perhaps it could be the sharp shock these players need to advance and take responsibility for their place in the team.

Hampshire

Hampshire have had a pleasing season in 2010. A commitment to youth is certainly laudable and was highlighted by the decision to stick with young players, committed to the side ahead of international star Kevin Pietersen in the Twenty2o finals. Indeed the successes they achieved could be a signal to other sides more reliant on older or overseas players, something which can only be good for the national side.

Arguably the best opening partnership in the country in the form of Michael Carberry and Jimmy Adams, both of whom easily surpassed one thousand first class runs, set a good foundation. Combined with the character of stand in captain Domanic Cork and a number of senior pros meant that the Rose Bowl has been a good proving ground for younger members of the side. The void left by the absent Nic Pothas, Dimitri Mascarenhas, Kabir Ali and Simon Jones has been admirably filled. Fitness permitting Hampshire will have some tough selection choices in the coming season.

Ultimately championship success alluded the county, however with division one status maintained the side have shown a real ability to win crunch games when the pressure is on.

Top of the Order - Jimmy Adams

Pipping his opening partner Michael Carberry (1,221 runs) to the top spot Adams has added to his triumphs of the previous season to add 1,351 runs to his career total at a pleasing 48.25. The sort of cricketer who has very real talent Adams is, perhaps one of the unfashionable bred who fails to gain international recognition. In this ambition he may well be pipped by Carberry, although he too seems to be suffering from a similar complaint. Nevertheless Adams has done everything that has asked of him, and more in all formats.

Best Bowling - James Tomlinson

The left arm medium bowler has continued to show dependable service to his native Hampshire. A total of 46 wickets at 35.3 may not have set the world alight, but Tomilnson can be pleased with his return. With Jones and Ali both hoping to make a 2011 return to professional cricket Tomlinson has done his chances of being one of the first names down on the team sheet no harm.

Rising Star - James Vince

The England under-19 batsmen is often compared to Michael Vaughan in both appearance and batting style. Good reviews from such high profile figures as former England manager Duncan Fletcher mean that he is certainly a man to watch. Making an appearance in all bar one of Hampshire's championship outings Vince has notched up his maiden first class century (an impressive 180) in the 795 season runs. If all indicators are to be believed a good technique, quick eye and calm temperament mean that it is highly likely that Vince will go on to further international honours.

A Year to Forget - Dimitri Mascarenhas

With no professional cricket this season Hampshire skipper Mascarenhas has had a poor year on and off the field. A season plagued by injury was topped off by a 14 day ban following what can only be described as injudicious comments made on 'twitter' about national selector Geoff Miller. Mascarenhas will look to turn his back on 2010 and not look back.

Star Man - Domonic Cork

Taking over the reins from wicketkeeper Nic Pothas 'Champagne' Cork has lived up to his name. The irrepressible figure has shown that he can still compete at this level. Guiding the side to division one safety in the championship (with both leadership and 45 wickets) and a home victory in the finals of the Twenty20 competition Cork has proved a shrewed signing for Hampshire and has shown not only his character but what an excellent cricket brain he has.

Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire have had what can only in all fairness be described as a highly unremarkable season. A mid-table finish in the championship was accompanied by unsatisfactory limited over performances. A well earned third place in the group stages of the Pro40 but with the bottom spot in the Twenty20 the side has lost the hard earned reputation once boasted in the shorter formats.

However that is not to say that the members at Bristol have been treated to a summer devoid of excitement. Wickets have been readily available at the County Ground, the capitulation of Derbyshire for a meager 44 in 16 overs and a ball cannot solely be attributed to sloppy batting.

Gloucestershire were 'champion county' last in 1877, and have not one the modern form of the competition, as it stands the club is in no position to change this. In all fairness the side is also some distance away from the heights it received at the turn of the century with limited over trophies galore. The club is, perhaps over reliant on aging overseas pros and there remains little to really excite any ECB talent scouts. The county are unfortunate in that a limited catchment area probably limited yuth talent however a worrying trend is emerging. The whole hearted seamer Steve Kirkby has abandoned his second county and crossed the boarder to Somerset in a bid to achieve greater recognition from the national side. Certainly a commendable move for any ambitious cricketer, but something of a concern for Gloucestershire.

Top of the Order - Hamish Marshall

The former New Zealand batsman has batted well over the course of the season on a bowler friendly home wicket. A good top order haul of 884 runs at a slightly disappointing 35.36 did not include one of the three first class centuries scored by Gloucestershire batsmen (Porterfield, 2 and Franklin, 3). Such figures certainly suggest an over dependence on overseas aid.

Best Bowling - Gemaal Hussain

The 26 year old London born seamer has excelled in his first full season of first class cricket. The highest second division total of 67 wickets at 22.34 apiece has done the county no harm. When one adds former skipper Jon Lewis (54) and Kiwi James Franklin (46) into the mix, the seam department looks more than healthy.

Star Player - James Franklin

The New Zealand all rounder has once again excelled as Gloucestershire's overseas signing. A good return with both bat (862 at 33.15) and ball (46 at 23.54) will mean that Franklin returns to his native New Zealand a more than happy man. Indeed such a fine performance has clearly been noted at home with a call up to lead the New Zealand 'A' tour to Zimbabwe next month. If he were to be unavailable next season owing to international commitments that will certainly be a cause for sorrow at Bristol.

Glamorgan

Under the guidance of Oxford educated skipper Jamie Dalrymple Glamorgan have made a good fist of championship cricket in 2010. Long viewed as the whipping boys of the domestic game the side have had a great deal of success in shedding this reputation. Promotion to the first division for the Welsh county looked all but assured until a final day slip-up which saw Worcestershire clinch the second place spot. This would have been a real plus for the side which propped up the bottom of both limited overs groups they featured in.

The success experienced in the longer format for Glamorgan have been facilitated by a number of shrewed signings. James Allenby, Mark Cosgrove, Jamie Dalrymple and now Graham Wagg represent a core of dependable county cricketers. Extended international recognition may allude such players but it cannot be denied that all, in their own ways, are fine exponents of the domestic game. With such a firm backing Glamorgan are giving the likes of James Harris the chance to develop and, with such sure foundations over due course success will surely not be far away.

Special praise also must go to the irrepressible Robert Croft. Almost 40 Croft, the elder statesmen in every sense of the word is still in contention for every side the Welsh county put out. This season the phenomenal landmark of 1,000 wickets and 10,000 runs for Glamorgan is a testimony to both the skill and service Croft has gifted his home side.

Top of the Order - Mark Cosgrove

The Australian overseas star, although clearly not built for speed, has used his quick eye and excellent technique to produce 1187 runs for his adopted county at a fraction under 50. A reliable stalwart, Dalrymple has had a man in the side who he can trust to build an innings and rescue a situation when required, a delight for any captain.

Best Bowling - James Harris

Making his debut in 2007 at just 16 Harris was the youngest player in the history of the club to take a first class wicket. Since then he has continued to show a thirst to continue this most excellent of habits. Taking his impressive 63 scalps at a miserly 20.52 international cricket surely beckons in due course for this exciting cricketer. A product of the Welsh system Harris is a credit to domestic cricket.

Star Player - James Allenby

The all round performances of Allenby have been invaluable asset at Sophia Gardens. His medium pace has brought him a more than useful 41 wickets at 21.58, however that is not the end of his ability. A good touch with the bat has generated 933 runs at 44.42, runs which have often been hard fought and scored as other members of the side have capitulated around him. Allenby is often under-rated and had he not been born and raised in Australia he may well have been given a chance in England performance squads. As it stands the ECB are unlikely to risk another Darren Pattinson.

Essex

The 2010 domestic season has been a tale of two formats for Essex. Reaching the semi finals for both limited overs formats Essex will be disappointed not to have any silverware to boast about. The side, it seems has gained a reputation in the shorter game. The same can, however not be said of the first class game. Essex have floundered this season, claiming only two championship victories. This echos, to some extent, the fortunes of neighbouring Kent. Both promoted from the second division of the county championship last season, both relegated this season. Perhaps this only serves to illustrate the gulf which is beginning to emerge between the two tiers.

The main problem Essex have faced is, perhaps the lack of an 'X' factor. A regular, reliable source of talent to bolster the side. Injuries and the call of international cricket has skimmed the cream of the Chelmsford crop. The loss of senior players has cost the team, a situation Essex is all to well aware of. The almost fascicle calling in of Twenty20 expert Dwayne Bravo for the finals day of that format certainly smacks of desperation. The huge pay packet he received for only one wicket and five runs betrays a team with limited confidence in their own ability. This is an area where Essex need to improve and perhaps the additional funds from two semi-finals can be used towards finding an established, reliable statesman. Talks with the released Owais Shah could be a fruitful move from the county ground.

Top of the Order - James Foster

Repeating his feat of last season the man with the safest gloves in the country who was dropped by the national side for his weakness with the bat has led the county run scorers. Foster has certainly led by example with 839 runs at an average of 32.26. Certainly handy figures, but the fact that no Essex player reached the coveted thousand first class runs perhaps serves to highlight a top level deficiency.

Best Bowling - David Masters

Veteran seamer David Masters has shown a real source of reliance for Foster and his men. Taking 53 important wickets at 23.07 he has shown that age and experience can really count. A lack of consistent support has, perhaps cost the side. Masters, however has more than fulfilled his role in first class cricket.

Rising Star - Jaik Mickleburgh

The Norwich born right hander has proved highly effective at the top of the order. Equaling Foster's number of runs Mickleburgh amassed his 839 at the slightly poorer average of 29.96, but with one knock more. If nurtured well Michleburgh has every chance of developing into a fine top order batsman and, who knows, follow the path of team mates Alistair Cook and Ravi Bopara into the national side.

A Year to Forget - Graham Napier

After some fireworks hitting which propelled him to national attention, leading to appearances for the England Lions, Napier has failed to gain further recognition. He has, however had no real opportunity to develop in 2010. Only four championship outings, owing to back injury has been a disappointment. Likely to be fit by the new year Napier will look to play a full season and show he has what it takes to compete at the top level.

Star Man - James Foster

Taking the reins from the struggling Mark Pettini, Foster has continued to show what a wonderful ambassador for the game he is. Spurned by England his professionalism has shone through. None will be more disappointed than Foster with the failure to capitalise on limited over successes this season, but he is the sort focused player who will bounce back and focus on improvement for next season.

Durham

The season has ended disappointingly for Durham. At the start of April a hat-trick of championships looked a distinct possibility. A good batting line up and the best seam bowling unit in the country, it seemed all that could stop the reigning champions was a break up of the latter by England intervention or injury. Unfortunately that is just what happened; Onions (45 championship wickets last season); Harmison, S. (51) and Thorp (30) all missed a significant part of the season. This restricted Durham to only five wins and eight instances of an inability to force a result.

It is an often quoted fact that you must take twenty wickets to win a first class game and this, allied with a more than handy batting line up, has been the source of Durham's successes in recent years. Finishing fifth in championship and Pro40 and eighth in the Twenty20 cup the Chester-le-Street side will look to improve next season which, surely cannot be blighted by injury to such an extent.

Top of the Order - Michael Di Venuto

The Australian opening bat has, once again provided the mainstay of the Durham batting line up. The only player to reach the thousand run land mark Di Venuto's 1,092 at 45.5 has enabled the side to make sure foundations, it has also given younger and less experienced players the stability and certainty by which they have been able to develop and improve as professional cricketers. The sort of truly invaluable service which an 'overseas pro' can offer to any club, at whatever level the side plays.

Best Bowling - Ian Blackwell

That a spinner has claimed most wickets for a side based at the seam friendly Riverside only serves to highlight the difficulties faced by the seamers, however that should not diminish Blackwell's performance with the ball. A tally of 43 wickets at 28.02 apiece has served not only to hold up an end, but also to provide a reliable, attacking option.

Rising Star - Ben Stokes

Spirited limited overs appearances have been reflected in championship runs by the 19 year old Stokes. Born in Chritchurch, New Zealand but educated in Great Britain 13 appearances have produced 740 runs, including an impressive 161, at 46.25. The commitment by Durham to fuse youth and experience has certainly paid off in this instance, with some serious talent for the future emerging.

A Year to Forget - Will Smith

At the start of the season Smith was the young captain of a team seeking to add to already impressive credentials - at the end, a second team batsman vying for his place in the first XI. Only four games, a disappointing batting average of 16.28 and team failures saw him dropped, not only from the team, but also as captain. In truth this was Smith's first test as a skipper, as last season Durham were so far ahead of the pack that the life of the captain was a relatively easy one. Smith, like his county will look to put the year behind them.

Star Man - Ian Blackwell

Since being captured from Somerset Blackwell has offered a real reward to the North East club in his two seasons at the Riverside. In addition to being top wicket taker Blackwell has, once more, proved to be no slouch with the bat. Averaging 36.09 with 794 runs he has truly lived up to the billing of 'all rounder'. Durham's job of re-building around their senior players for next season will begin; Di Venuto, Mustard, Benkenstein, Harmison and Plunkett are all vital, however top of that list with his all round contributions must surely be, Ian Blackwell.

Derbyshire

Derbyshire have had a dismal year, being awarded the 'wooden spoon' of domestic cricket, in finishing at the bottom of the (second division) of the County Championship. The side has had glimmers of hope in the one day formats, but mid table finishes in the first rounds of both the 40 and 20 over competitions are little compensation to the under-performing club.





There has been a great deal written about the difficulties faced by smaller clubs to make their mark on the domestic scene. The Derby HQ, devoid of international cricket deprives the club of an edge larger clubs are perceived to have financially (although as Surrey have proved wealth does not always transfer to on-field success). There seems, however to be little direction. Even at club level the local area appears at odds with the realities of first class cricket. Derbyshire clubs, those who should feed young talent into the county side operate on a strange basis with, for instance all leg side deliveries being declared wide. This is certainly in line with the one day game, but does little to create young cricketers ready for the longer format.





Ultimately Derbyshire are not in an easy position. Limited catchment area and finances mean it is difficult to make real in roads. Perhaps the return of Luke Sutton, an experienced first division cricketer, will bring some spark back to the county ground. However with the departure of key players such as Rogers, Lungley and Wagg it will be an up hill struggle.





Top of the Order- Chris Rogers


Once again Australia's loss was Derbyshire's gain. Although slightly down on the previous season Rogers' tally of 1,285 runs at an impressive 53.54 has been the backbone of the county's attack with the bat, limited support meant that largely it has been in vein, with only three victories being recorded.





Best Bowling - Robin Peterson


The former South African international has had a successful year with his brand of orthodox spin, claiming 51 scalps at 30.7. Certainly helpful for Derbyshire, but ultimately undermined by a largely toothless seam unit.





Rising Star - Chesney Hughes


Born in Anguilla, yet holding a British passport Hughes made his first class debut this season and has certainly made an impact. Indeed he has proved to be one of the few beams of hope for Derbyshire. 784 top order runs at 44.35 have offered vital substance to the side. Indeed one thousand runs would almost certainly have followed in his maiden season had the young left hander played in all of the side's first class fixtures, rather than the 12 appearances he was granted.





A Year to Forget - Graham Wagg


After a troubled season which saw only four first class appearances and ten wickets Wagg has decided to turn his back not only on a disappointing 2010, but also on Derbyshire. The move to Glamorgan will certainly be felt by his former club. Good left arm seam bowling, a useful touch with the bat and a wealth of, perhaps as yet unfulfilled, talent leave Derby. Just another shrewd signing by the Welsh side in recent years.





Star Man - Chris Rogers


Bar an absence from the Twenty20 side Rogers has really been a star in every sense of the word for Derbyshire. Accumulating vast numbers of runs, leading the side on and off the field, mentoring younger players and, who knows possibly making the tea and rolling the wicket, Rogers has given his heart and sole to the club. His departure at the end of this season to Middlesex will certainly be felt. A massive hole in the ranks must be filled.

Championship Round-Up

The County Championship finished with a rather damp, yet dramatic, finale on Thursday with Nottinghamshire claiming the coveted title. It has certainly been a season of ups and downs for all of the teams involved and the next few posts on this site will seek to chart that, examining each of the eighteen first class counties in turn.

Some players have excelled and really challenged for a place in the national side, with others struggling to live up to past glories. From each side four 'awards' will be made. One for the top batsman (in terms of runs scored) and top bowler (in terms of the number of wickets taken). There will also be a junior prize (where relevant) for the up and coming young star for each county who has shown both talent and potential this season. A 'wooden spoon' will also be issued to the player who has had a real 'annus horribilis', a year to forget.

The Professionals?

World sports has been dogged by scandal over the past few weeks, with one question seeming pertinent. Be it Pakistani bowlers or England footballers, what has happened to professionalism in sport?

The News of the World expose of the, currently unproven, deals made with seamers Mohammed Asif and Mohammed Amir to bowl no balls is certainly damaging not only for the world of cricket but also for the players personally. Regardless of the motives of the two men what remains is the fact both are, at least in theory, professional sportsmen. Any willful under performance is clearly a failure to perform to the best of ones ability. Pride alone in self as well as position ought to dictate that, regardless of financial gain a sportsman must "Play up! Play up! and play the game!".

Similarly captain Salman Butt, a man selected by the Pakistan Cricket Board to not only lead but also be an ambassador for the game of cricket which, owing to a number of difficult circumstances, is troubles in his native land. In being implicated in the scandal he is perhaps a greater failing in terms of professionalism than his two seamers. Since making his debut against Bangladesh in September 2003 Butt has made 33 test, 78 ODI and 25 T20 international appearances, a wealth of experience at the top flight. Clearly, therefore, he should be aware that the role of a captain is far more than to set the field and change the bowlers. He must represent the side as the embodiment of professionalism and the spirit of the game. Butt has failed to do this.

However it is not just members of the Pakistan cricket team are not alone in failing to perform as professional sportsmen. England and Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney has been dogged by allegations regarding his private life. In spite of this he appeared for the national side, scoring against Switzerland. This is to his credit. However a lapse was evident in Manchester United's Saturday fixture against his former club, Everton based in the hostility of the reception he was likely to receive from the opposition fans. Sir Alex Ferguson is quoted as stating "We are not going to subject him to the abuse he gets here". Rooney is a professional footballer. He is paid, handsomely to play football and to play the game. This should be done regardless of the reception he may or may not experience from supporters.

I suppose the connection between the two cases is money which, rather sadly has in so many areas replaced true professionalism and an understanding of what is right both morally and in the name of the game, whichever sport is in question. This is true for the sake of the game as well as the example being set. Both the Pakistan national cricket team and premier league side Manchester United have huge fan bases, players given the honour of representing either are also role models to countless sports fans, perhaps they ought to remember this.

Onward, Christian... Pilgrims?

Evensong for the fourteenth Sunday after Trinity brought an introit hymn with a well known tune. 'St. Gertrude', written c.1871 by Sir Arthur Sullivan (more famous for his collaborations with W. S. Gilbert) was not, however accompanied by the expected 'Onward Christian Soldiers! Marching as to war!' but something else, rather less inspiring invitation calling 'Onward [to] Christian pilgrims'. The new lyrics, written by Michael Foster feature in the New Anglican edition of 'Hymns Old and New' certainly give a different image to the well known processional hymn. But why?

The original text penned by Sabine Baring-Gould, a Church of England priest, novelist and antiquarian is certainly of it's time. A mid Victorian confidence in the place if Great Britain in the world, military successes, a booming Empire and a clear understanding of 'Muscular Christianity' are reflected in the sense of mission to go 'forward into battle' behind Christ. Perhaps, therefore this new re-writing is based on a desire to move away from the jingoism of the mid nineteenth century? That is a motivation which seems most likely. Foster's take clearly speaks of Christ's light and guidance and the travails that any Christian must inevitably face in life, but is it really necessary?

Baring-Gould based his original lyrics on the second letter of St. Paul to Timothy, 2:3 'Share in suffering like a good soldier of Christ Jesus'. Certainly emotive when one takes the understanding of the role of a soldier both today and in the time of Paul. Therefore, perhaps in taking away the rhetoric of combat, a clear foe and victory with a united church we are losing some of the recurring struggle between good and evil. The new piece clearly has merit, although it only gains any real place due to the excellent score by Sullivan.