Thursday, April 4th, 2024

LIBBY SAYS WORCESTERSHIRE HAVE SQUAD TO COMPETE IN TOP FLIGHT

Opener Jake Libby believes he is in the prime of his career a decade after making his senior debut and that Worcestershire have the capabilities to compete in Division One of the County Championship.

Libby delighted Worcestershire supporters during the winter when he signed a new four-year contract until the end of the 2027 campaign.

He has enjoyed a prolific first four years at New Road after moving from Nottinghamshire and scored more first class runs than any other player in the country so far this decade.

Now he is hoping to play a key role as Worcestershire look to try and establish themselves in the top flight after last summer’s memorable promotion as runners-up to Durham.

He said: “It’s going to be a great opportunity this summer to play Division One cricket and that was ultimately part of the reason I moved here.

“I genuinely felt it was a club capable of playing Division One cricket and that excited me.

“We’ve got a good squad. There has obviously been a lot of change, players leaving and signing, but I’m really looking forward to the challenges of this season which is just about here.

“You have to be realistic and, yes, it’s going to be a challenging season, but we’ve got more than enough to compete.

“That’s what you want to do, compete and build and feel like you are really part of Division One.

“We’ve got in some practice this week at Kidderminster, either in the Seconds or in the nets, and can’t wait until the opening game.”

Libby is delighted with his superb form season in and season out since he moved to New Road.

He said: “I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved so far since I’ve been at Worcestershire.

“It’s gone really well.  I haven’t got a golden answer as to why it has gone so well but it’s been nice to have been consistent as I have been.

“There are always going to be tough times, particularly opening the batting in English conditions.

“I’m pleased with where my game is at but I’m not resting on my laurels and will try and keep improving.

“You’ve constantly got to keep trying to get better and evolving, working on my strengths and highlighting any weaknesses that may have crept and change them technically.”

Libby admitted: “It feels pretty crazy that it’s 10 years since my debut and it only feels like yesterday that I was making my debut.

“I remember that really well but I feel like I’m right in the prime of my career now and feel my best years are currently, and to come.”

Libby began his Worcestershire career opening with the vastly experienced Daryl Mitchell and is pleased to contribute himself now as one of the senior players.

He said: “It’s felt like that the last couple of years and I’ve played a decent amount of Division One cricket which will be good to have under my belt, both personally and for the team.

“I feel like I’m a real leader within this dressing room and help Brett (D’Oliveira) as much as I can and he has done a great job over the last couple of years.”