When Glamorgan collapsed to 83 all out in Sunday’s Pro40 play-off, it summed up the problems they had endured throughout the competition and the season – early wickets, middle-order save them. So it is no surprise that Herschelle Gibbs has been targeted to return to the county where he scored 281 runs at 56.20 during this year’s Twenty20 campaign. Gibbs batted at No.3 and can add much needed solidity there next year. With Glamorgan averaging less than 12 runs for the second wicket during the Pro40 this season, it’s needed. Gibbs is said to be in talks with the county.

Hampshire’s Michael Brown has dismissed speculation linking him with a move to The Oval. Surrey are said to be keen open with him and Scott Newman but Brown has a contract with Hampshire and that is currently where he sees his future. Despite relegation, Surrey can be persuasive. While Brown has only registered one Championship century this season, he has been consistent, averaging just under 39 with scores of 94, 66 and 16 against Surrey. Surrey have tried five players alongside Newman this year …

The County run-machine that is Mark Ramprakash has hinted that he may move from Surrey if they fail to gain promotion next year. He appears unwilling to see out his final playing days in Division Two and his contract ends next season. There will be no shortage of offers. Surrey’s choice as their new coach may also play a major part, after relegation cost Alan Butcher his job.

Also in the news:
- Chris Rogers has agreed to return to Derbyshire in 2009 as their overseas player and captain after his 1,706 runs for them in competitive cricket in 2008.
- Matthew Walker signed a two-year deal with Essex. Jaik Mickleburgh, who has been rewarded for his 2nd and 1st XI performances for Essex with an improved deal taking him up to the end of the 2010 season.
- Pakistan legspinner Imran Tahir has signed a two-year deal as Hampshire’s overseas player. Fellow spinner and exciting young talent Liam Dawson has also dedicated his next three years to Hampshire.
- Former England allrounder Craig White has extended his stay at Yorkshire as 2nd XI skipper.
- Mark Lawson, the legspinner released by Yorkshire, is currently trialling at Derbyshire and was handed a Championship debut against Leicestershire this week.
- Nottinghamshire’s young quick Mark Footitt may have to hop-it to give his career a kick-start. After limited chances at Trent Bridge, Worcester are sniffing around as they look to give their attack more fire-power for Division One next season.
- Gloucestershire have registered 22-year old allrounder Rob Woodman to play for the county. He impressed recently in a game against Gloucester 2nd XI while playing for the MCC Young Cricketers.

Paul Wood is a freelance journalist