Ahead of the first round of One Day matches, Yorkshire's Head Manager gave us a preview for the upcoming 'grudge match' between Mashonaland and Yorkshire.
"I feel we have a strong OD side, one that is stronger than Mashonalands, though I don't think they'll be easybeats. They showed us recently that it's not over until it's over, so I am looking forward to a highly entertaining match." Mr. Thomas said this evening.
"As club captain, Michael Dawn will lead the side in his first one day match for us. He's a class batsman and everyone, including himself, expect big things this season."
Last year, Yorkshire had an arguably worse One Day outfit compared to their First Class eleven, yet did better in the shorter form of the game.
"We have learnt from Season 6 that you don't need a line up of superstars to win matches. You need your 11 players going out and playing as a super team, instead of superstars going out and playing for their statistics. We've gained some great players in the draft and through trading in the likes of Beasley, Yashpal, Kaneria and big hitting wicket keeper Salman. They've been performing well as a team in training and I expect this will show on the weekend."
Thomas had a few people scratching their head with the announcement of the side, which oncluded just one fast bowler, and all-rounder Wilden Cornwall (average of 22) opening the batting.
"Last year we didn't have much luck with the opening position, so I've decided to try something different. Wild is no mug with the bat, and scores quickly. His job will be to go out there and get us off to a quick start and take the game away from Mashonaland.
As for the bowling...I feel the pitch will hold a bit for all the bowlers, with Gough leading the attack. Our spinners should be able to tie them down well as Mashonaland's ability to play spin is dubious. So really, it'll be a close match that we will win."
Yorkshire side to play Mashonaland (in batting order)
W Cornwall, M Salman (WK), M Dawn, W Beasley, F Yashpal, R Kripal Singh, K Agnew, W Robertson, A Dave, D Gough, D Kaneria, P Laker (12th man)
Darren Gough will take the field for Yorkshire for what may be his last season.