'The Australian standard is the one that Somerset have to achieve' says Anderson

It was real cricketing weather at the County Ground today where the Somerset players reported back to start their final build up to the new season.

During the afternoon the players were able to enjoy some net practice out on the grass, which was a very welcome change from working indoors.

As he stood looking out at the players on the field chief executive Peter Anderson reflected upon the World Cup that had concluded the previous day.

He told me: "As expected and deservedly Australia won the World Cup. They have done it by doing the simple things well. Their bowlers running in straight lines with sound actions, which enables them to be accurate, their batters batting straight to begin with, and their fielding is extremely athletic."

The chief executive continued: "These are all points watched very carefully by our coach Kevin Shine and his staff and which we are attempting to replicate at Somerset from the first team right down through the age groups. The Australian standard is the one that Somerset have to achieve if we are to be successful."

Meanwhile earlier in the day James Bryant, one of Somerset's new signings who has been playing out in South Africa for Eastern Province, had the chance to meet the chief executive.

After their meeting Mr Anderson told me: "It is a pleasure to welcome James Bryant to the club. He is clearly a very athletic young man with ambitions to do well for Somerset and to play for England. He is just the type of player that we are looking for."