Australian Michael Klinger is such a model for our emerging young cricketers.

The news he has signed for two more years is marvellous news for our county. He loves both Bristol and our club and thinks he could be a part of something special as the side improves. With Lancashire and Surrey to be promoted next year’s second division will be more open. It could be Gloucestershire’s year.

I have better news regarding the first class fixture list for 2017. The traditionalists are digging in!

There could well be fourteen matches in the Championship, not twelve and the T.20 competition not played in a short summer window, but over a much longer period using Friday nights as the regular slot. Gate receipts for Friday nights are excellent and this may sway the thinking.

The Championship game against Surrey started in predictable fashion. Put in on a green wicket and under overcast skies the home side looked bound to struggle and indeed they did. Full marks to Gareth Roderick and to James Fuller. Gareth held the innings together and James hit a rigorous forty-six, and then bowled a fine opening spell which deserved several wickets.

In such form he could win us the quarter final against Hampshire on Wednesday. West Indian fast bowler spearheads the visitors attack and he will be hard to deal with. Michael Klinger who should be fit will be just the man to do that.

Outstanding and outscoring everyone in this seasons two limited overs competition Michael should have been included in the Australian squad for the one dayers against England. His omission is astounding and I understand he is bitterly disappointed. All Gloucestershire should sympathise with him.