Napier: I want to repay club's faith (From Echo)

Napier: I want to repay club's faith

1:30pm Wednesday 29th June 2011 in Essex Cricket Club By James Colasanti

GRAHAM Napier says he is raring to go after his three-week injury lay-off, but admits he faces a challenge in winning his place back in a rejuvenated side.

The Essex all-rounder, who has been out since pulling a hamstring earlier this month in the defeat to Surrey, is expected to make a return against the Kent Spitfires on Friday.

While he has been on the sidelines, Essex have revived their season with a couple of Twenty20 wins and a stunning Championship victory over division two leaders Northamptonshire.

And the 31-year-old knows competition for a starting place is becoming increasingly fierce following the excellent form of youngsters like Adam Wheater, Tom Westley and newcomer Tom Craddock.

Napier said: “I’ve been very impressed with Adam in particular.

“For a young lad who is normally a keeper to come in and make a stand like that with our skipper James Foster, is incredible.

“I’m not the first to say it, but I’m sure he has a big future in the game.

“And I think Craddock will prove a very shrewd signing. Having faced him in the nets, I think he will do well in county cricket.

“I’ve played my part in a couple of really good games this year, particularly in the Championship.

“But I know I am going to have to fight my way back into that side, and that can only be a good thing for the club.”

FULL STORY IN WEDNESDAY'S ECHO