Yorkshire all-rounder Tim Bresnan is voted the best in the category in 2016...
BEST ALL-ROUNDER:
JOE LEACH
After a breakthrough season in 2015, Worcestershire’s seam-bowling all-rounder Joe Leach followed it up with an even better year in 2016. As vice-captain, Leach helped steer the Pears to a comfortable third place in Division Two. He racked up 583 runs at an average of just over 36 and topped the Division Two wicket-takers charts with 65 scalps - the most wickets for any pace bowler in either division.
TIM BRESNAN
Not only did ‘Bresilad’ chip in with important wickets when it mattered - taking 31 in his 11 2016 matches - he also returned 722 runs at an average of almost 50 (48.13). That’s an impressive effort for a man who usually bats at seven or eight. Bresnan’s superb season culminated in what was so nearly a match-winning performance in the title decider at Lord’s. He followed a dogged 142 not out in the first innings with 55 under great pressure in the second to take his team within touching distance of a third title in three years.
RYAN MCLAREN
Rarely can there have been a more popular overseas player than Ryan McLaren at Hampshire. Despite the county’s struggles this season - and their eventual relegation - the South Africa international shone with the bat and ball throughout 2016. He scored 832 runs and finished the season with a very healthy 55.46 average - not bad for a number eight! Add to that 32 Division One wickets and that’s a rather impressive maiden season for the club.
DARREN STEVENS
In his twelfth season at Canterbury, Kent mainstay Darren Stevens continued to do what he does best: score runs and take wickets. He racked up 782 runs in 14 matches at a shade under 49 as Kent finished runners up in Division Two. Stevens’ 40 years haven’t looked like holding him back, especially not when he’s given the new ball. A return of 37 wickets at 30.57 suggest there’s more cricket to come from this stalwart of the county circuit.