Worcestershire

Worcestershire have consolidated well after a winter which saw much of the serious talent at New Road desert the club in search of brighter (and more lucrative) prospects. The club have, however done surprisingly well and more junior members of the squad, notable Moeen Ali and Daryl Mitchell have really thrived under the added pressure.

Limited overs form did allude the county with poor performances throughout. Although a good championship showing is a source of pride as, thanks to Glamorgan's fall at the final hurdle, it meant that once again Worcestershire will compete in the first division. Ultimately as a result of financial circumstances Worcestershire has been left with little alternative but to trust a young, largely inexperienced squad. Although this may not have been entirely by choice the club has not been let down. How this side will perform in the top tier remains to be seen, although it will provide an excellent opportunity for bonding and development all round.

Top of the Order - Moeen Ali

A prolific season with the bat brought 1,260 runs at marginally under 50, a clear illustration of how well her has coped with the increased responsibility an inexperienced squad has brought. With excellent support from new captain Daryl Mitchell (1,180) and Dutch International Alexi Kervezee (1,190) it is clear why Worcestershire were in a strong position and were able to capitalise in the final championship round. Also a more than useful spinner the club will be eager to retain Moeen Ali at New Road as, if he continues such form he will be a real asset for the future.

Best Bowling - Alan Richardson

If the batting is showing both stability and promise the bowling attack looks somewhat fragile. Veteran seamer Alan Richardson has done well for his latest county and 55 wickets at 24.4 show that he is far from a spent force. However a bowling line up led by Richardson (35) and Matthew Mason (36) is far from youthful and future consistency is a worry.

Rising Star - Ben Cox

Worcestershire had to wait until the 18 year old Cox had completed his 'A' levels before adding him to the first team line-up, however with the promise he continues to show indicates that their patience will be rewarded. Cox has a great deal to learn, both behind the stumps and with the bat, however with some tidy glove work and a second career half century he has demonstrated that, in time, he has every chance of becoming a more than capable cricketer.

A Year to Forget - Vikram Solanki

It may seem a little unfair to suggest that a batsman who scored over seven hundred runs this season has had 'a year to forget', but such is the class of Solanki that he will be looking to improve. Having resigned the captaincy to concentrate on his batting the old campaigner will seek to reap tangible rewards next season. He will look for runs in all competitions to guide his county to greater things and the odds are that he will go out and make a real impact with the bat.

Star Man - Daryl Mitchell

Signing a new four year contract Mitchell has committed his future to his home county. Volume of runs and the appointment as captain indicate that Worcestershire have ensured the services of a good man. He succeeded in guiding the New Road club not only through runs at the top of the order, but also through an excellent demonstration of his captaincy gift. The first captain born inside the county for 85 years, Mitchell took on the mantle when Worcestershire were floating. Yet he managed to turn the fortunes around and successfully focus on promotion. A good prospect with a full season in charge.