Hughes keen to help Derbyshire with the ball this year

All-rounder Alex Hughes, who emerged as a leading player for Derbyshire last year, says he is ready to be part of the supporting cast to help the county challenge this season.
Derbyshire all-rounder Alex Hughes, who has been refining his bowling skills during the winter. (PHOTO BY: Jason Chadwick)Derbyshire all-rounder Alex Hughes, who has been refining his bowling skills during the winter. (PHOTO BY: Jason Chadwick)
Derbyshire all-rounder Alex Hughes, who has been refining his bowling skills during the winter. (PHOTO BY: Jason Chadwick)

Hughes was awarded his county cap on the back of some impressive and mature batting displays as the team’s top run-scorer in first-class cricket, and now he wants to improve his contribution with the ball.

Derbyshire have a potentially potent new-ball attack for 2018, but Hughes could have an important role as a back-up seamer, so he decided to swap the Australian sunshine for an English winter in Derby to hone his skills.

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“I did the winter last year in Australia and found that really beneficial in terms of getting in match practice, working on skills and getting my head right,” the 26-year-old said.

“This year, it was about refining technique and working on my bowling a bit more, so if the captain needs me to fulfil a role in any way, I can step up.

“When I first came into the team a few years ago, I was being used as a fourth bowler. Last year, I didn’t really get as much of a chance, but I like to be seen as a bowler and someone who can do a job with the ball, so it was time to start working hard on it again.

“This winter, I’ve been working on what kind of bowler I’m going to be.”