Alex Hughes says it was a surprise and an honour after becoming the 112th Derbyshire player to be capped and the second to have graduated from the Cricket Derbyshire Academy in partnership with the University of Derby.
The 25-year-old all-rounder was presented with his cap by Captain Billy Godleman prior to lunch on Day Two of the Specsavers County Championship match against Kent at Queen’s Park, Chesterfield.
He said: “It’s a very nice surprise and I’m honoured to receive my County Cap at the Club I’ve been here for over ten years now. I didn’t see it coming but after a long hard season it is very nice to receive something like this.
“I love playing cricket and every time I put on a shirt I feel it’s an honour and I’m very happy that I get to do this for my job.”
Enjoying his best season to date, Hughes has emerged as a key performer in both four day and limited overs competitions, hitting 658 first-class runs and topping the county’s averages in the Royal London One-Day Cup.
Hughes said: “The main thing is I’ve been consistent throughout the season and I’ve played in every game so far in all formats which has always been my target.
“In the past I’ve played a lot of one-day cricket but this year I’ve almost, fingers crossed, completed a full season of first-class cricket.
He added: “The hundred here at Chesterfield earlier in the season was significant because although I was getting some runs I wasn’t getting the big scores so that helped me kick on.”
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Derbyshire’s final home game is vs Kent at Chesterfield. Save £4 by purchasing your matchday tickets in advance. While further discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Buy online or call 01332 388 101.
