Captain Billy Godleman says the Derbyshire squad is focused and prepared ahead of the Royal London One-Day Cup opener versus Durham on Thursday at Emirates Riverside.
Godleman says the squad are naturally disappointed with the start they have made to the Specsavers County Championship, but hopes the one-day competition will be a chance to kick start their season.
Derbyshire now turn their attention to a block of eight Royal London One-Day Cup games, starting with Durham on Thursday before returning to The 3aaa County Ground on Sunday for a home game against Northants Steelbacks.
“We are obviously disappointed to have come out on the wrong end of both results so far this season,” said Godleman.
“But, particularly in the Northamptonshire game, we played all the cricket for over three days and had the opportunity to try and win, but that exposes us to potentially losing it.
“We were a bit slow off the mark against Kent, but the guys came back really strong as a bowling unit in the second innings.
“We are really excited for the Royal London One-Day Cup and we now go into a block of all white ball cricket so we know exactly what we have to do and how we have to go about it. It has enabled us to prepare and plan for the format we’re involved in.
“Our focus is making sure we prepare as best as we can and make sure our plans are very clear and that we go out there and execute them to the best of our ability.”
Derbyshire’s first opponents are Durham, who narrowly missed out on a quarter-final spot in last year’s competition.
“Durham are a very experienced outfit in all formats, but particularly in limited overs cricket,” Godleman added.
“They play on a big outfield and particularly with the competition set in April and May this year, it will be the teams who adapt quickest to the conditions which will do well.”
Godleman also had an update on the progress of fast bowler Hardus Viljoen who will miss the trip to Durham.
He said: “Hardus is doing well but not quite well enough to be out on the field just yet, but we are hoping that is sooner rather than later.”
Supporters can save 20% by purchasing their Royal London One-Day Cup matchday tickets in advance of the day of the game. Buy online, over the phone by calling 01332 388 101 or in person at The 3aaa County Ground.
Northants Steelbacks – Sunday 30 April – BUY
Notts Outlaws – Tuesday 2 May – BUY
Warwickshire – Wednesday 10 May – BUY
Worcestershire – Tuesday 16 May – BUY
