Confident Carlson backs Glamorgan after strong start

Glamorgan take on Middlesex at Sophia Gardens in the T20 Blast on Friday (18:30 BST) looking to build on their encouraging form in first-class cricket.

Captain Kiran Carlson says there is confidence in the dressing room after their positive start to life back in Division One of the County Championship.

They defeated Surrey by seven wickets at home in the last game of the latest block of red-ball fixtures for their third win of the season, pushing the Welsh county up to fourth in the table in their first top-flight season since 2005.

Despite the jump in quality, Glamorgan have exceeded expectations.

“First time in Division One, we knew it was going to be tough the whole way through and I think we just kept it nice and simple,” said Carlson.

“There’s a lot of confidence in the dressing room, a lot of guys back themselves and we know if we do the right things as a team, we’ll be there or thereabouts.”

Carlson has been one of the stand-outs this season, with his fair share of early season special moments.

His 209 runs during Glamorgan’s first Championship win away at Hampshire, and a century against reigning champions Somerset in the T20 Blast spring to mind.

He is well aware though of his team-mates contribution, and the quality of the opposition.

“I think just the kind of relentlessness of teams, they keep coming with both bat and ball,” said Carlson.

“There is a lot more international quality as well. But it’s still the same game, it’s still cricket.

“This season has been one of those where it’s been hard work but I think we’re fronting up to it well and there’s been a lot of guys putting their hands up every week.”

Assistant coach David Harrison has also been impressed with the start Glamorgan have made and – with the focus switching to limited overs cricket for the next two months – is already looking forward to their final six County Championship games starting at the end of August.

“I’m not really surprised by the success. I thought we had a fantastic year in Division Two and played some really good cricket,” said Harrison.

“We knew the challenges of Division One, the teams, the size of the squads. But we’ve played some really good stuff in the first eight games.

“It’s been a very positive start and we’re looking ahead now to the next six games but obviously we’ve got a lot of [different format] games to go before that.”

Harrison is no stranger to County Championship cricket with Glamorgan.

He was a member of the squad relegated from Division One in 2005.

“That seems a long time ago, 2005, when I was still playing, but even back then, the change in standard and depth of squads is obviously very different,” said Harrison.

“We’ve got a strong squad of players and probably the most important thing is everyone’s contributing at different times and we’re not relying on one or two players.

“Everyone’s putting their hand up at different times and that’s why we are where we are at the moment.”

‘It’s not good for your nerves as a coach’

Glamorgan’s focus now switches back to the Vitality Blast as they face strugglers Middlesex on Friday night in Cardiff.

It is their first in a block of six consecutive games, where they will hope to build on some pulsating wins to help them reach the knockout stages.

The shorter format has certainly got supporters out of their seats this season, four of their first six games have been decided on the final ball.

While tight encounters are exciting, Harrison admitted they take their toll emotionally.

“You normally get the odd game which goes to the last over in a season but to get four in the first six is crazy,” he said.

“It’s not good for your nerves as a coach really or anybody. Nor supporters either. Good for the neutrals I suppose.

“But we’re really confident, we’ve played some really good stuff in the first six games. Everyone’s contributing so we’re looking forward to trying to push for that quarter-final spot.”

Captain Carlson is hoping to continue his fine County Championship form with the bast as Glamorgan look to make the final eight.

And he is looking forward to a Friday night contest in the sunshine, despite noting the difficulties of switching formats.

“It’s tough. It’s the same every year and we’re always trying to have a bit of a focus. You’re coming in and practising, making sure you just tune into your skills and know what you’re trying to do,” said Carlson.

“But it’s always pretty exciting as well. Switching between different formats is very lucky to be able to do as a cricketer.

“Especially Friday night here at home, that’s a pretty exciting thing to look forward to with the hot weather as well.”