Kruis looks to the future

Deon Kruis, the 34-year-old Yorkshire fast bowler, has given the strongest indication yet that his playing days are coming to an end. Kruis, a South African who plays for the county as a Kolpak, is exploring other avenues beyond the field of play, including media work and coaching.

"I don't want to keep the younger guys out of the team when I feel they're ready," he told the Yorkshire Post. "I don't feel they're 100% there yet physically and skill-wise, but, if it's up to my wife, this will be my last season. It's hard for her being in South Africa for basically five out of the six months on her own with the little girl.

"This could be my last season, but I'm hoping to do maybe one more year next year. I've done some media work and it's been interesting to sit on the other side of the fence. I've been in touch with the guys at Sky and I'd like to keep involved in the game in some way. We'll just have to see how it goes."

Hamstring and calf injuries limited his appearances last year to just six first-class matches, but although his body is beginning to show signs of wear and tear, he was Yorkshire's leading wicket-taker in the Championship in 2006 with 38 wickets in 13 matches. "Last season, in particular, was very frustrating for me," he said. "I had injuries and, as you come towards the end of your career, you obviously want to be playing as much as possible. But I've worked hard and I feel really good now. I feel as if I'm bowling well and in good rhythm.

"I'd like to get 60 County Championship wickets this year. I've done it before, but that was in the second division. This would be in the first division and a better achievement."