Dave Houghton says Derbyshire’s squad is a good foundation on which to build for future success.
After enjoying strong 2019 campaigns, Luis Reece, Leus du Plooy and Harvey Hosein all signed new long-term deals with the club, while Anuj Dal also committed his future to Derbyshire for another two years.
Australian duo Sean Abbott and Ben McDermott will both feature during the 2020 season, while promising fast bowler Michael Cohen has also joined after impressing in South Africa.
While they were unable to challenge for silverware in the County Championship or Royal London Cup in 2019, Derbyshire did make history in the Vitality Blast by reaching Finals Day for the first time in the club’s history.
Head of Cricket, Houghton, believes that key first team players signing new deals, along with the acquisition of two players with international experience, means Derbyshire can aim to challenge for success in all formats, both next season and in years to come.
“If we are going to challenge and win things, we want to do that consistently,” said Houghton.
“There is no point setting a goal to win something next season and then finishing bottom of the pile for the next few years after.
“I think that stability is what will give you that continuity, and we have a squad that is ready and should be aiming to win something. If we can start doing that, then I think we have a squad capable of keeping it going.”
Derbyshire will play six County Championship matches before the start of the Vitality Blast in May, with the chance to build momentum early in the red ball campaign.
Abbott will be available for up to ten County Championship matches, while McDermott will feature in the Royal London Cup, with both players available for the Vitality Blast group stage.
Houghton is pleased with the opportunity to pick up early wins in first-class cricket, and is excited to see how the overseas players will complement the Derbyshire squad in 2020.
“It is a good number of games to have early in the season, and it really suits us to go into the Vitality Blast after the first six matches,” added Houghton.
“There’s another three County Championship matches during the T20 group stage, and to have Sean Abbott during that time is fantastic news, having him and Ben McDermott is a huge boost for us.”
Join us in 2020! Derbyshire County Cricket Club celebrates its historic 150-year Anniversary in 2020 and you can be part of a full summer of cricket with Club Membership. Packages on sale now from £169 if purchased before February.
