Rhodes to use Hampshire performance as message for 2023

Club Captain Will Rhodes believes his side's monumental final day effort against Hampshire is the perfect message to take into next season.

Liam Norwell’s dramatic nine for 62 not only ensured Warwickshire’s position in Division One, but it gave a whole boost to a dressing room who were determined to do everything they could to survive.

“It was an incredible day and it’s one that players, staff and Members will remember for a very long time,” said Rhodes. “Obviously, It’s at the the wrong part of the table that we’d like, but nevertheless, those exciting days are the ones you want to play and get you up in the morning in the winter.

“We started to really believe when we got James Vince out. 40 for four is always a sticky period for them and the way he batted in the first innings was high class and showed what a very good player he is.

“To get him out nice and early with Liam Norwell relatively fresh was when it started for the lads and the crowd. They had a couple of partnerships at crucial times, but we tended to strike at the right the opportunity.

“The performance was quite a good message into what we can put into next year. It’s remarkable what the body can do and you’ve seen it with Olly Hannon-Dalby and Liam Norwell on that last day. To bowl 37 out of nearly 44 overs between them shows what you can do if you want to run through a brick wall and they certainly did that.”

Heading into the winter months, the coaching staff and players will have plenty time to reflect as well as look forward to an exciting 2023. The side will look somewhat different come April, but Rhodes is already excited to welcome the newly announced additions.

“He’s (Ed Barnard) a very good signing in my opinion and offers the stability we lost with Tim Bresnan which gives you so many more options with your team selection,” the 27-year-old concluded.

“He’s really excited to come, we’ve already been speaking about Division One and he’s already sent me a text saying how good Liam Norwell is, so I think he’s excited to face him in the nets. There’s two guys coming up the road, with Moeen Ali coming home as well and everyone knows how good he is. We’re all excited for those two to come.”