Surrey

Often described as the Manchester City of English cricket Surrey have seen, once again that throwing the cheque book at a problem rarely provides a solution. A number of high profile signings have performed well and the return of the young Rory Hamilton-Brown as captain may suggest the side is turning a corner, but Chris Adams still has work to do.

The investment in such a young skipper is, without doubt a positive move for the future of the game both in South London and England as a whole. If Surrey can develop the conviction the likes of Yorkshire and Liecestershire have in younger players and a strong team ethos rather than quick-fix mercenary purchases they have the financial backing to go far.

Top of the Order - Mark Ramprakash

The 40 year old batsman-cum-ballroom dancer has shown that he is in no mood to slow a desire for runs which has seen him exceed 34,000 to date in his 23 year career. Comfortably Surrey's leading run scorer with 1,595 at 61.34 Ramprakash has guided his second county. Without his presence Surrey would undoubtedly have been in further trouble.

Best Bowling - Chris Tremlett

The move from Hampshire over the winter has undoubtedly benefited Tremlett. With 12 appearances the tall seamer has taken 48 wickets at a cheap 20.18. This has been enough to kick start a stalled international career with a return to the England fold in time for the Ashes tour this winter.

Rising Star - Jason Roy

The 20 year old right hander burst onto the scene with an unbeaten Twenty20 hundred against Essex and has gone on to show good promise with the bat. He has a long way to go and it would be a shame if a team largely dominated by older players prevents greater first team exposure. However with two half centuries in three first class outings a spark is undoubtedly there.

Star Player - Mark Ramprakash

Consistently making stacks of runs Ramprakash has been invaluable to Surrey. A phenomenal talent he sadly never flourished at an international level, however with the likes of Roy and Hamilton-Brown coming through the ranks he can play a major role as a senior pro in bringing on the next generation.