WE certainly have had our fair share of bad breaks this season.

First, we had the Maidstone pitch problem, then the weather considerably shortened playing time in recent matches we looked certain to win, and now the South African cricketing hierarchy have cruelly stolen our two in-form all-rounders.

Since the United Cricket Board srpung the surprise we have tried desperately, but unsuccessfully, to get them to be sympathetic to our cause.

Unfortunately, the many phone calls and emails to various South African officials failed to do the necessary convincing.

Both players are in great form and hardly need a practice camp and the match practice they have enjoyed by playing for Kent is the best possible preparation they could have for an international series.

What hurts the most is the very short notice we received and the lack of respect the UCB of South Africa have shown for county cricket.

To my mind English cricket is in great shape and county cricket is highly competitive and deserves to be highly respected by the other cricketing nations.

We did of course sound out a number of options to take their places but with such short notice and the busy international calendar we really could not secure any worthy replacements.

As a result, the spirit, determination and character of our team will be sternly tested.

The good news is that our second team have won their championship. They have all worked really hard during the season and really do deserve their success.

Although winning is important, the big thing for me is that some of our younger players have shown sound improvement during the summer.

It has also been pleasing to see that they have enjoyed good support from some of the more fanatical members.

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