Tredders’ Blog from Kolkata

I write this piece from my hotel room in Kolkata ahead of the third test in this enthralling series and after what has been a whirlwind fortnight or so.

Firstly and obviously most importantly for most of you reading this, being named captain of our great county, what a proud time it is for me and one I will cherish for a time to come.

To be asked to take on this position is a great honour and I will do all I can to do the position justice. If i am honest it was not something I had thought lots about before now as I was very happy playing my cricket under Keysey as he was fantastic in the role and helped my career and others no end. His shoes will be huge ones to fill but I do believe I have plenty to bring to the role. To have him around to seek advice from along with the other players will be a valuable source of knowledge and information.

I am extremely grateful for all the support i have received from family, friends, the club, supporters and especially from current and former players and captains which shows the rich history and honour that goes with the role.

Secondly, my call up first for the remainder of the tour in India.

Obviously having been involved last summer in the games against Australia and South Africa and performing pretty well I did hope I may have a part to play in the winter which has proved to be the case. India is a fantastic place to take your game as a player and test it so I am very much looking forward to the next two months, Also to be asked to cover for the spinners over here for the remaining test matches is something that has boosted my confidence as to be seen as someone that can maybe fill their shoes after the way they bowled in Mumbai again is something to be proud of. The group is a good place to be at the moment due to that fantastic performance last week and the lads will try to carry that forward into this next match.

Jimmy and I have spoken and started to put in motion plans for next year and having spoken to the lads we are all keen to individually and as a group improve, which bodes well for a successful campaign next season. And once we get into the new year it's not far away, look forward to seeing you all then.

Hope everybody has a fantastic Christmas and here's to a cracking 2013!

Tredders