LEWIS Gregory always believed he could consistently bowl the kind of spells that have helped propel Somerset to the top of Division One.
However, it wasn’t until back surgery 18 months ago that the all-rounder was able to start putting in threatening performances over a run of games.
Buoyed by an injury-free 2018 in which he was rewarded with the captaincy of both Somerset’s T20 side and England Lions, Gregory started this summer in prolific form. After just five matches he is the leading wicket taker among seamers in the County Championship with 35 scalps at just 11.29 apiece.
Having had a taste of international action last winter with the Lions, seeing international cricket played at Taunton this month has only deepened his desire to play for England.
Talking exclusively to TCP, Gregory said: “I'd say a big part of my success is feeling healthy. I had a lot of injuries, so I had surgery the previous winter on a back issue which had been there for four, five years.
“I never quite felt I’d been able to do what I knew I was capable of. So, last year was kind of ‘just get through a season’ year. Then having that year of bowling and then some cricket throughout the winter with the Lions, has done my body a world of good.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Kohli leads RCB to much-needed win
VIRAT KOHLI returned to top form with 72 not out to lead RCB to an eight-wicket victory over the Royals in Abu Dhabi.
TEWATIA HAS SPARKED MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE IPL
James Wallace admits he has been surprisingly taken in by the IPL so far – and, in particular, the performance of a new Royal renegade
Whitewash victory is just the T20 tonic for Keightley
A SERIES that few thought would come to fruition ended in triumph for England who completed a 5-0 whitewash of the West Indies in Derby.
TEN OUT OF TEN! RYAN IS BASKING IN MORE GLORY
Chris Stocks catches up with Ryan ten Doeschate, who has plotted Essex’s recent county domination every step of the way
Surrey have the Will to end hoodoo
WILL Jacks may be a hot batting prospect but he’s relished the added responsibility with the ball in Surrey’s charge to T20 Finals Day.
NOW IT'S OUR TIME TO HELP OTHERS
Chris Stocks catches up with England’s director of cricket and discusses the need for the ECB to help boards around the world
IT'S OFTEN DOWN TO A THROW OF THE DICE
Garfield Robinson explains just how big a part luck plays in determining success or failure in sport
FINDING TALENTS LIKE TOM IS A GAIN IN ITSELF
One of the unexpected highlights to emerge from English cricket’s Covid-attenuated season was the chance given to young players to strut their stuff. With many overseas players and Kolpaks affected by travel restrictions many counties looked instead to the young talent on their staffs with gratifying results.
Future looks bright for the Ohio Slinger
ALI Khan is earning his stars and stripes in the Indian Premier League, with the first American to play in the tournament breaking down barriers in every sense.
Spin trio put squeeze on after Glenn shows off skill with the bat
SARAH GLENN helped England spin it to win it after proving she can make an all-round contribution.
