Brown predicts bright future for county duo
» WILL Brown is predicting a bright international future for Gloucestershire head coach Richard Dawson and batsman James Bracey. And the chief executive also believes there are several other players at the club capable of attracting the England selectors over the next couple of months. Dawson has been filling the role of spin bowling coach for the Test series against West Indies, while Bracey made an excellent impression at the training camp that preceded it before being omitted from the final squad. Brown saw the involvement of both as another indication of the strides being taken by Gloucestershire, exemplified by promotion from the Second Division of the Specsavers County Championship last season.
He said: “What James has achieved is a huge incentive for the likes of Ryan Higgins, Chris Dent, David Payne, Benny Howell and others, who have all demonstrated the talent to become international players.
“It has been tremendous to see James and Richard Dawson involved with England. I have no doubts that both will learn from the experience and be called upon again.
“Richard is a top-class coach, who cares deeply about the players under his charge. He is making a great impression at international level and long may he stay at Gloucestershire while working with England too.
“James learned a lot from Michael Klinger and has developed a similar work ethic. He is a very shrewd cricketer, and an exceptionally talented batsman, and is still young enough to improve further.”
Like everyone involved his club, Brown has been frustrated by the break from cricket caused by Covid-19.
It could hardly have come at a worse time for Gloucestershire, who were due to celebrate promotion and also their 150th anniversary.
“We were so excited about this season, but of course there are far greater issues involved,” said Brown. “What we can aim to do is make sure we don’t lose the momentum and ensure we mark our anniversary appropriately, even if that means delaying some celebrations until next year.
“The pandemic has brought home to me how much of a family Gloucestershire cricket is. I will never forget the goodwill that has poured into the club from sponsors, commercial partners and fans.
“We want to reward that backing. The players are raring to go and we expect to be competitive in both formats.”