Strength of squad the key says Medlycott

Surrey coach Keith Medlycott has spoken of the depth of strength in the Surrey squad, and their satisfaction at retaining the county championship trophy.

"We're a quality squad," he explained, "and we can pick from 18 to 20 quality players who we believe can come in to first class cricket and produce match winning performances."

"The majority of this squad are in their prime now, which lasts for 3 or 4 years. We've won 5 trophies in 5 seasons, which is a phenomenal performance. The players are happy and motivated. They love winning and they are at the right age to understand that they haven't got 20 years left in their careers, so they must cash in while they can."

"I think this title is even more satisfying than last season because the competition is stronger and we have had to play the top sides twice. I think our peers will look at us now and believe we are the best side in the country, where as you can talk about luck if you only win once."

Skipper Adam Hollioake agreed. "It's a great feeling. It gives you more satisfaction than the first time as it proves it was not just luck, and it means we've been successful over a period of time."

"Last year lots of things went our way," he added. "We didn't really have to dig deep. This year though there have been times when we've been struggling and we've had to fight and battle, and it is that that has made me so proud."

Medlycott also spoke about the rumours of Surrey's unpopularity with other clubs. "You hear a lot of talk about `Surrey showboats' and `Surrey this and Surrey that'; but I think that tends to happen when you're becoming a successful side," he said. "I'll be honest and admit that the dressing room likes to hear that because it means we must be doing something right. It means people are fearful of us, and the ability we possess."

"I'd like to think we have an aura about us. The key thing is respect, and I like to think that every time people play Surrey they know that it's going to be tough to beat us."