Worcestershire spring into New Road action (From Worcester News)

Worcestershire spring into New Road action

10:30am Wednesday 24th March 2010 in

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WORCESTERSHIRE director of cricket Steve Rhodes is hoping that exposing his players to the early English spring will allow the New Road side to steal a march on other counties.

The County have managed several sessions in the nets at their headquarters ahead of their first pre-season friendly next Wednesday against Essex.

But with many counties flying off to sunnier climes before the new 2010 campaign gets under way on Friday, April 9, the Worcestershire players have been getting used to the cold March winds.

“We have had a great winter indoors at Malvern College and using their wonderful facilities, but it is nice to get outside,” Rhodes said.

“You spend all winter inside and you just can’t wait to get some fresh air and now the players are eager for that first practice matches.

“Many counties haven’t been able to do that yet so it is a testament to Tim Packwood and his groundstaff that we have managed to do it.

“Hopefully, by getting outside and experiencing the early spring English conditions will help us to steal a march on others who haven’t.”

After all the injuries of last season, Rhodes says that his side are in good health prior to next week’s two-day trip to Chelmsford.

All-rounder James Cameron has also joined up with his team-mates after playing grade cricket in Perth.

The Zimbabwe-born 24-year-old, who signed a two-year deal with the New Road side after being scouted by player-bowling coach Matt Mason, arrived in Worcestershire last week and Rhodes said the British passport holder is settling in well.

“James is now looking forward to getting a good start to the season with us,” the New Road chief added.

“He is now having to get used to the English conditions instead of the fast pacier wickets of Perth.”

Meanwhile, New Road chief executive Mark Newton says Worcestershire are still awaiting official confirmation from Cricket Australia to allow Steve Smith to join the New Road side for the Frie-nds Provident t20 competition.

The 20-year-old all-rounder is currently out in New Zealand with the Baggy Greens and is fast becoming one of the hottest talents Down Under.

Australia are touring England in the summer when they face Pakistan, but Newton doesn’t believe that will be a problem.

“Of course, there is a clause in his contract that if he is required by Australia then we release him,” Newton said.

“At the moment the contract has been signed off and we are just awaiting the all-clear from Cricket Australia.

“We are not expecting any problems and I’m not concerned at this stage as it only went back to them a couple of weeks ago.”