Strength in depth is the key to success, says Miller

Establishing real strength in depth holds the key to England's ambition to become the best cricket team in the world, according to national selector Geoff Miller.

England are currently preparing for an arduous Test series in South Africa, which forms a key part in preparations to defend the Ashes on Australian soil in just over 12 months' time.

And Miller, a special guest at the Adams Exhibitions Bristol and District Cricket League dinner, believes England are heading in the right direction.

He said: "I know we are going forward. If we want to be able to class ourselves as the best in the world then we must be able to beat the top teams home and away.

"The key to being a strong international side is to be a strong side in depth and that's what we are working on, to keep the conveyor belt moving.

"There is always going to be stuff cropping up, such as injuries, that you have to deal with. It's not easy but we have to be ready for whatever happens.

"South Africa are our focus right now but we do have one eye on Australia. I was a part of the England team that won 5-1 there in 1979 during the Packer era, and it's a very special kind of feeling.

"Do I think we can win there? Yes I do. I'm never over confident, but I'm confident that what we're doing is a real good go at achieving our goal and each goal is the next series.

"There will be a team there with no excuses – we'll be fully prepared and ready."

Miller presented the Senior Division trophy to Twyford House, who bounced straight back to the West of England Premier League following their relegation the season before.

The league's batting award went to Lodway's Adam Robson for his superb total of 1,163 runs which was still not enough to overhaul Stuart Watson's league record of 1,212, which was set in 2000.

Wayne Passmore, of Bradley Stoke, took the bowling accolade with a total of 47 wickets, and the league's top wicketkeeper was Mike Franklin, of Portishead, with 19 victims.

A special presentation was also made to Graham Bateman who has been running the association's knockout cup and vase competitions for 25 years.

Other awards – Les Hodge Young Player of the Year: Adil Khan (Pak Bristolians). Over-50 Award: Vernon Pope (Twyford House). Sid Wills/Schoolmasters Trophy: Dick Parsons (University Staff). Umpires award: Steve Goddard.