Friday 9 April 2010

Can Durham do it again?

The county season 2010 has just kicked off and weirdly, it’s not raining! Although my team (Somerset) are not playing today and nor are the current county champions, Durham, it will be very interesting to see if there is anybody out there who can challenge them to the tile this year. With the strength and depth of their squad, they are looking very VERY good for securing the title for the third year running.


From my point of view, the only reason that Somerset’s challenge fell away was their inability to take 20 wickets. This is not helped by the fact that Taunton has some of the flattest wickets in the country and one of the smallest boundaries. This makes it a batting paradise and can often produce 450-500 runs on the first days play! With the retirement of Andy Caddick, there is extra pressure put on the already heavily burdened Charl Willoughby.

Durham seem to have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to fast bowling. With the stalling of Steve Harmison’s England career, the non-selection of a revitalised Liam Plunkett and the bizarre exclusion of Graeme Onions during the South Africa Tour, Durham look to have an advantage over all of their rivals. They have also produced some excellent youngsters, namely all rounder Ben Stokes and the talented leg spinner Steve Borthwick.

They seem almost certain to regain their title and it could be down to some unlucky results, injuries or the lord of weather that stops them!



Paul

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