Billy Godleman has urged Derbyshire to build momentum and take confidence from his side’s opening round victory over Durham.
Derbyshire recovered from 0-2 in the first innings to win by 125 runs on day four, and the club captain was pleased with how the team responded after early disappointment.
“We had to work hard for the victory in the end but I think across the four days the bowlers stuck to their plans brilliantly and at vital times in the game with the bat we were able to make some substantial scores and partnerships,” said Godleman.
“It wasn’t an ideal start, but against one of the best bowlers in the division in helpful conditions, it was always going to be difficult for the first couple of hours.
“We know conditions here well and if we can get runs on the board, the wicket at the end of day three and day four will start to go up and down and take spin which fits perfectly with the bowling resources we have.
“It is very important that we take the confidence from how we played this week, and that we are disciplined and prepared to do exactly the same with both bat and ball against Gloucestershire.”
The 30-year-old paid tribute to Harvey Hosein for his standout performances with the bat, whilst he also hailed Tom Lace and Alex Hughes’ 61-run partnership in the second innings.
Hosein hit two half-centuries as he top-scored in both innings for Derbyshire, as the county won its first match of the season for the second consecutive year.
“It was brilliant and in the context of the game, his individual scores were worth a lot more.
“There was then a really good partnership between Tom Lace and Alex Hughes in our second innings which proved to be crucial because if we lost two or three more wickets that evening, it’s a completely different game.”
Godleman was pleased with Logan van Beek’s contribution on his full debut for the club, and he was also happy to see Luis Reece in the wickets after taking 5-47 in the first innings.
“The amount of overs that he bowls, with the fact that he is left-arm and very skilful as well, we are very fortunate to have Reecey [Luis Reece].
“I’m really pleased for him because there is nobody that works harder on their physical and conditioning to do the work load that he does.
“In my opinion, Logan’s catch was by far the best, it was a sensational catch.
“It seemed to give him a boost and he deserved those couple of wickets when he tried and toiled really hard for us throughout both innings.”
A winning start! Derbyshire start the 2019 season with a victory. Never miss a moment this summer with Club Membership. Buy online or call 01332 388 101.
