Godleman pleased after big win

Billy Godleman praised the collective effort of the Derbyshire squad, after their season-ending nine-wicket victory over Sussex 

The captain scored a half-century in the first innings, as he and Harry Came got Derbyshire off to a fast start on Day One, while Wayne Madsen’s 111 was a key knock as the visitors reached a season-high 465 before lunch on the second afternoon.

Ben Aitchison took four wickets to dismiss Sussex for 300, still 165 behind, Dustin Melton, Ed Moulton and Anuj Dal shared eight dismissals, setting Derbyshire a target of just 23 to win.

Matt Critchley hit 15 of those winning runs to reach 1,000 in the County Championship this season, one of just five players to reach the landmark so far and captain Godleman was delighted with the team spirit shown on the field during the three days at Hove.

“It was really enjoyable, the boys were fantastic,” Godleman told BBC Radio Derby.

“To give ourselves the opportunity to follow-on, the guys were brilliant. Critch, Benny Aitch and everyone else who supported them to take those four wickets and keep them under the follow-on total. Then, to take ten wickets in 51 overs was a really good achievement.

“We made 370 on the first day, irrespective of conditions, to score that amount of runs in 96 overs set a strong foundation for us. Wayne made a fine hundred, which you need to make 400-plus, and for the guys to take 20 wickets in the time they have was really pleasing.

“It was reflective of the effort this week that everyone chipped in at a certain time, put a shift in for the team and helped to earn the victory.”

The Derbyshire captain also praised Critchley for his all-round work this season, having scored 1,000 first-class runs and claiming 32 wickets in the LV= County Championship.

“I’m so delighted for Critch, he’s a good friend and he’s had an outstanding season,” he added.

“Particularly in a team that’s struggled at times, to put in the performances he has is a credit to him, his openness to learn and develop. We, as a club, are proud of his personal efforts.”