Michael Booth claimed his first senior wicket on Sunday and Olly Hannon-Dalby his 483rd as a mix of youth and experience continues to fuel Warwickshire’s turbo-charged start to the Metro Bank One Day Cup.
Booth – who signed a rookie contract for the 50-over competition – greeted Worcestershire wicketkeeper Ben Cox’s snick to Rob Yates with an explosive celebration as he opened his Bears account.
The 22-year-old made his debut in challenging conditions at Neath last Thursday and said he’s glad to get off the mark and settle into the squad.
“It feels really good and takes a lot of the pressure off to get that first wicket,” said South African born Booth. “I really enjoyed the game and I’m loving being part of the team.
“My debut wasn’t the best so to come back like I did at Worcester, when I thought I could have got at least another wicket, was great. Of course it makes my job a bit easier coming in after Olly and Barney have got them four or five down early on!
“I’ve been here since 2021 so coming in and playing with the lads has been quite an easy transition as I’ve got to know them well over the last two years.
“And it’s helping me a lot to be surrounded by guys like Olly, Rushy, Milo and the other senior pro’s. Especially when you’re under pressure, feeling a bit nervous, someone like Olly will come to talk to me in the field and give advice.
“It’s helped a lot with my plans and as well in training as I’m always asking what they would bowl in different situations.”
Hannon-Dalby is now the leading wicket taker in this year’s Metro Bank One Day Cup with 14 scalps – two short of his haul in the competition last season – and just five shy of 100 in List A cricket.
He added: “Michael is doing great, it’s a really nice mix, a few old guys like me but some quality youngsters. There’s a nice atmosphere about the place and to have guys like Boothy tearing in trying to take wickets is really good to see.
“It was a great team effort at Worcester and again the catching was top drawer.
“Burgess has been exceptional behind the stumps, some of takes he’s made down the leg side, and Yatesy is so safe at first slip it’s almost like having an all-rounder like he’s taking five wickets himself.”
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