Hutton backs Twenty20 vision
Source -
thisislondon.co.uk
Middlesex captain Ben Hutton is looking forward to coming back to Richmond for the county's final Twenty20 Cup group match against Hampshire next Wednesday.
Middlesex captain Ben Hutton is looking forward to coming back to Richmond for the county's final Twenty20 Cup group match against Hampshire next Wednesday.
Hutton, grandson of the legendary Len Hutton, has been affiliated to Richmond Cricket Club since starting his county cricket career eight years ago.
And the 28-year-old, whose brother Oli also plays for Richmond, hopes his troops can put on an exciting display for what is likely to be a sell-out crowd at Old Deer Park.
He said: "I love coming back to Richmond.
"The pitch has improved in the past two years and it is usually a really good day.
"Unfortunately it got rained off last year, so hopefully the weather will be kinder to us.
"Richmond has a great catchment area for cricket and, if we can put on a big display, I am sure there will be a great atmosphere."
Hutton, in his first season as county skipper, has made more than 20 appearances for Richmond in the past eight years.
He was supposed to play for them earlier this season, but the game fell victim to the weather.
The left-handed batsman has enjoyed his time in charge so far, with the county holding their own in the County Championship and challenging for the Totesport One-Day League title.
"It has been great, I feel I am on a learning curve and I am growing into the job week after week," he said.
"It was never going to be plain sailing, taking the captaincy of a young side.
"We have had a number of injuries to our bowling attack but, despite that, things are going really well and we are in with a chance of winning something this season."
Middlesex have put themselves in a good position to qualify from the Twenty20 Cup South Division, despite two defeats to neighbours Surrey.
Following a victory over Kent on Tuesday, they have games against Essex tonight (Friday) and Sussex on Monday, so it could all hinge on getting a positive result against Hampshire on Tuesday.
"I am pleased with the way we have taken to Twenty20 cricket this season, because we have struggled the past couple of years," Hutton said.
"It is very competitive between the three sides below Surrey and we are right in the hunt.
"It has taken time for me to find my feet as a captain in Twenty20.
"It is very frenetic and you have to think on your feet, but I have become more confident the more I have done it."
Hutton is a big fan of the 20-over game, which has brought a new lease of life to the county game.
"It is great it gives people a chance to express themselves and show what they can do without too much criticism," he said.
"It is a great spectacle for the fans.
"They get to see a result on the night and it is important for the kids to see professionals enjoying themselves."
U17s will gain free entry to the match at Richmond, but spectators should book early as tickets are being snapped up.
To buy tickets, call 08700 289 1300 or visit www.ticket zone.co.uk For further details see www.middlesexccc.com or call Emma Channon on 020 7289 1300.
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