Wayne Madsen says the squad will take a lot of confidence from the clinical seven-wicket win against Gloucestershire at Bristol.
Martin Guptill led the way scoring a first class career-best 227 in Derbyshire’s first innings, before taking four catches and scoring a quickfire unbeaten 31 in Derbyshire’s successful chase of 142 on the final day – as the visitors claimed maximum points.
Meanwhile, paceman Mark Footitt took nine wickets in the match, including 6-94 to bowl Gloucestershire out for 411 second time around, on a pitch that played well throughout the four days.
“We were disappointed after the first game but I thought we bounced back brilliantly with this win and now it’s off to Glamorgan. It’s another tough test but we will take a lot of confidence from this,” Madsen said.
“There were some standout performances, but everyone played their part and it was a very pleasing victory.
“Mark [Footitt] was exceptional. He has the ability to go through the gears when needed and pick up crucial wickets. That’s exactly what he did.
“It was an exceptional performance to take six wickets in the second innings because the wicket really did slow up but he was getting through. It was exceptional fast bowling.
“He really bowled with some good pace to get the ball rolling and I thought we were quite clinical in the way we went about knocking the runs off.
Guptill’s first innings double-century included a staggering 29 fours and 11 sixes to help put Derbyshire in a commanding position, but Madsen was equally impressed with the New Zealander’s skills in the field.
“They are probably three of the best catches I’ve ever seen live.
“Three one-handed screamers really – just sensational. He’s a quality bloke and a quality team player. His batting was brilliant and to take the catches as he did changed the whole shape of the game.
“We now go on to Glamorgan looking to maintain this momentum and register our second win of the campaign. It’ll be tough but we have the confidence to put in a good performance.”
Derbyshire are back in action on Sunday when they travel to Cardiff for the start of the LV= County Championship fixture against Glamorgan.
The next fixture back at The 3aaa County Ground begins on Sunday 10 May when Derbyshire entertain Northamptonshire. You can save £4 per adult ticket by purchasing in advance of the game. Click here to purchase>>
Photography: David Griffin
