McGee hopes to build on a superb 2019
NORTHUMBERLAND CCC slow left-arm orthodox bowler Oli McGee is looking forward to continuing where he left off last season when the National Counties Cricket Association season starts, writes SAM BLACKLOCK.
With lockdown now finishing its seventh week, sport around the United Kingdom is still postponed with no clear sign as to when it might resume.
McGee, who had an impressive 2019 season, was - like the rest of the Northumberland squad - looking forward to what 2020 had to offer.
He said: “I was feeling pretty pumped for the new season.
“Now it is going to be a lot shorter than we hoped but hopefully we will still get loads of cricket in and find ourselves on the right end of a few results.”
In 2019 McGee was Northumberland joint leading wicket-taker, picking up 21 wickets across all formats.
He added: “I think last season’s wickets and runs are always a benchmark as to what you want to beat.
“This season is going to be very different to previous ones, so I feel if I can contribute how I want to I will be happy.”
McGee went on: “I am keen for us to keep progressing over all three formats - three-day cricket, 50-overs and 20 overs - and to turn our progress into results.
“Especially in three-day cricket - it has been a while since we claimed a win in the three-dayers, so I think it is time that is changed.
“I feel like if I can hopefully keep taking wickets and chipping in with a few runs then that might go some way to helping us achieve that.”
Northumberland confirmed earlier in the year that former Durham player Michael Richardson had signed as their new professional for 2020.
McGee is delighted to see the experienced wicketkeeper/batsman return.
He added: “Richo is class and his knowledge of cricket is next level.
“He is very calm in the dressing room and is a massive asset for us but I feel it is unfair to pin all our hopes on him.
“It is a collective responsibility to obtain results - but having Michael is certainly a massive help.”