CH – In the past Monteith, Corlett, Benson and Cohen have each sampled county cricket. Is there anyone in the current Irish squad capable of reaching that standard?
MH – I can’t really comment on the older established players because I wasn’t around when they came into the national team, but I feel several of them might have made it if they were living in England. The English system identifies young players of potential at an early age, and harnesses that talent with specialised coaching and organised cricket. I’ve no doubt the younger players like Patterson, Molins, Butler and Eagleson could reach county standard if they were developed through the English system.
CH – What goals have you set yourself and how should you be judged at the end of the season?
MH – Don’t judge me on playing results please. We have little hope against the full-time professionals and while we will give 100%, I’m realistic enough to accept the limitations involved. However, we can be judged against the other home countries and I’m happy enough with that.
This season is a learning exercise for everyone, but if I can get the players playing to the best of their ability, I will be very pleased. I can’t really expect more than that.
CH – Irish cricket has done an about-turn in the last few years and is almost totally committed to the limited overs code. Do you see any value in time cricket?
MH – Not really to be honest. I accept that there is a place for traditional fixtures and that the opportunity to play at Lord’s against the MCC is a big honour for an amateur cricketer. But there is no real cricket gain. We must try and get all domestic cricket on the same wavelength. The interpros in particular should be highly competitive, a stepping-stone to the international squad, and involve only the best players playing on the best grounds.
CH – And finally, will Mike Hendrick do for Irish cricket what Jack Charlton has done for Irish football?
MH – If we have 20 county players with Irish descent I’d be tempted to say yes. But seriously, I’m committed 100% and if everyone else in Irish cricket is likewise, we can improve a lot in the future.
