Great Expectations & 10 Players To Watch In 2009Posted on Monday Feb 2 14:00:00 GMT 2009 Well here we all are, snowed in!! (This Country!!!)
Can't work on the grounds so, as I am bang up to date on everything else, I have allowed myself to think (and waffle on) about what to expect in the 2009 season.
With a lot of new captain's at all levels, it will be interesting to see how the new incumbents will handle their lot. The early signs are of a new found togetherness and unification at the club but only time will tell as to how this transposes to the field of play.
It will be a challenging season as our top three sides look to be competitive in their respective premier divisions whilst the 4ths and 5ths should go well in the AJ Sports League.
So, here are my ten to watch in 2009 (without prejudicing the side any player may/will be selected for):
1. Gary Outram - "Ootram" (aka "The Grass") struggled early on in 2008 but came good in the latter stages and if he can find something approaching his 2006 and 2007 form than the 1st XI will be all the better to watch.
2. Gareth Lambe - "Garfield", having now relinquished the 2nd XI captaincy, should be pushing for a 1st team place and the extra focus on his batting in 2009 should allow his progression at some stage.
3. Sam Seadon - Seadog is as talented a cricketer as we have at Sutton CC and he has the potential to destroy opponents both with bat and ball. I think we all hope, and indeed think, that 2009 will prove to be his landmark season at the club.
4. Krishna Dwarka - Kris has a lot of talent but needs to turn some of his good 2008 knocks into more decisive or larger ones. It is likely that Arun Harinath may not be available as much this year and this could be an opportunity to fill that void on occasions. He should improve on his 2nd XI average in 2009 at least!!
5. Josh Allen - I think there is little doubt that Josh will become a regular 1st XI player at some stage. This season could be his "bridge" season as he looks to establish his 2nd XI credentials and regular selection. When on song, he is great to watch (there is just something about left handed batsmen). His 178 in the 3rd XI last season was the highest championship score anywhere - quite a feat!
6. Spencer Champ - "The Housewife's Choice" has all the attributes to move up the ranks with the right coaching and advice on his technique. He will need to channel his aggression into the right areas as well but he could underline his potential in 2009.
7. Dan Edwards - Dan developed into a very good batsman/keeper in 2008 and he will be looking for a regular 2nd XI spot (at least) in 2009. He has already proved to be a useful cover for Russell Coombe and with Chris Moore and Richard Day waiting in the wings, the club is well covered behind the stumps.
8. Sam Woods - Sam will be challenging Muhunthan Harinath for any 2nd XI leg spinners spot in 2008. He has a maturity (most of the time) that belies his age and, rather like Josh Allen, he should become a 1st XI player in due course. The variety of his particular art is vital in 2nd XI cricket and a steady run of 2nds outings should help his cause.
9. Sam Schofield - "Sleazy" has a lot of talent and 2009 could be his season. If he can get his head down and build the long innings' that he is obviously capable of he could prove to be one of the best all rounders at Sutton CC. 2nd XI places will be highly sought after however and the competition is fierce re the middle order.
10. Keval Patel - Kev has tons of ability as a batsman and 2009 looks to be the season where he announces himself as a future 1st XI player. His off spin can prove useful as well in opening up games.
To be fair, I could have made a case for many other players to watch out for and, no doubt, there will be a "springer" come out of the pack to have a telling season.
Let's hope all our players new well on Sunday's as we prepare for another emotional season at Blighty!
Miz
ps - Coming soon!! 10 players to avoid in 2009!
(Bet you can't wait,)???
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