Graeme Welch says there are opportunities up for grabs for the new faces in the squad that will face Glamorgan at Cardiff this week.
Derbyshire head to Wales without the duo of Martin Guptill, who scored his maiden first-class double century against Gloucestershire last time out, and all-rounder Wes Durston due to minor injuries.
Billy Godleman also misses the game through suspension, leaving the door open for fellow batsmen Chesney Hughes and Scott Elstone who are in line to feature in their first fixture in 2015.
Spinner David Wainwright could also feature after he was named in the squad following his return from injury, and Welch believes there is a chance for some players to stake a claim for a regular spot.
“It’s sad to lose Martin [Guptill], Wes [Durston] and Billy [Godleman] for the trip to Cardiff, but it’s a good opportunity for the new guys to show what they can do,” said Welch.
“Chesney [Hughes] and Scott [Elstone] will come into the side and it’s a good opportunity for these lads. I spoke to the younger lads and the rest of the squad a couple of weeks ago, and said because we’ve got such a small squad everybody will play a part.
“I told them to get ready for whenever they’re called upon and now they have their chance.”
Welch added: “It was a better performance against Gloucestershire, but we’re still looking to improve further. I think we could have bowled better at times so we’ve been working hard and we will be ready to go on Sunday morning.
“We’ve had some good results against Glamorgan recently. We’re looking forward to it, it should be a good game and we’ll be looking to make it two wins in a row.
“Last year we didn’t win many games at the start of the season. We’ve got Glamorgan and Northamptonshire in the next two games and these are two which we are targeting to win.
“If we can get three wins before the start of the NatWest T20 Blast competition starts, we’ll be in a good position.”
Derbyshire are in action on Sunday when they travel to Cardiff for the start of the LV= County Championship fixture against Glamorgan.
There’s still time for supporters to purchase Membership, Six Packs and matchday tickets for the 2015 season; either over the phone by calling 0871 350 1870, online HERE or in person at The 3aaa County Ground; Nottingham Road, Derby, DE21 6DA.
