GRASS court tennis and cricketers' testimonials - two peculiarities of an English sporting summer both of which endure for very different reasons.

Wimbledon with its wearing grass is loved for its variety, finesse and natural drama. Testimonials reward loyalty in an increasingly mercenary sporting world.

If Tim Henman were granted a benefit, I have no doubt Henman Hill and the rest of the sporting public would support him wholeheartedly, such is the affection in which he is held.

For the Worcestershire sporting public, Tom Moody falls into the same category after eight fantastic years as a player and now three as coach to an emerging, exciting side.

The recent period of cricket typifies Tom's approach to the game.

Worcestershire have lost half a side to injuries and international calls, but he has made this into a positive, an opportunity for younger players.

Pity or sympathy are unlooked for and unwanted. In such an atmosphere, players grow up feeling that it is the team which is important and that they have a valuable contribution to make. Individuals are not important.

It is a philosophy followed by Sir Alex Ferguson, though he has, famously, perhaps taken it a little far in one case! I fancy Tom's man management is of a calmer, less choleric variety.

"Ticker" is what Tom values most. The translation from Aus-speak - "heart" - is exact.

If you want to play for him, you'll have to show that you can "front up" when it counts, be there to guts it out with bat or ball when the pressure's on.

The values are clear and at this half way stage of Tom's third season as coach, you can see a team shaped in his, Australian image.

There are fast runs, fast bowlers and spinners who give it a good rip. The unbeaten run in first class cricket hangs in the balance as I write in the middle of the Durham game, but this has been a good first half.

Looking beyond this season, I see the foundations being laid for further success.

Vikram Solanki and Kabir Ali have gained international experience, Kadeer Ali and Shaftab Khalid are shortlisted for this year's academy squad and five Worcestershire youngsters have just played in English Cricket Board U18 representative games.

I am delighted to see the prospect of more home-grown talent emerging.

However, Worcestershire is not a populous county. We will always be a net importer of players.

A dynamic approach to coaching and player development such as Tom gives is vital to ensure that quality players want to move to New Road.

In the meantime, Worcestershire finish the week at Oakham School for an NCL game against Leicestershire with the prospect of being back somewhere near full strength.

It is a pleasing thought that as the season gears up for its crucial second half, Worcestershire should be getting stronger, but I'm sure Tom will be telling them to watch out for that "rusty gate".