“It was a hard season to start with in 2010 and I think all in all it was an average year for me” said Plunkett. “But, I think England saw my potential and that’s why I was named for this EPP tour. When it’s going right I’m as good as anyone, I just need to work hard to make sure I keep getting better so it’s right more consistent.
“I definitely had a lot more responsibility last season with Durham and I think I really benefitted from that, I’ve definitely grown up. Overall I think the year went OK for me but I want to improve and I’ll be working hard to make sure that I do for next year.
“There are a couple of technical things I’d like to improve and I’ve already started on those and will keep working on them while I’m away. I have to get more consistent, getting the ball to swing away from the batsman is going to be another area I focus on.
“I’ve played a lot of domestic cricket since I started in the Durham Academy nine years ago, I’ve grown up a lot, as well as being on a few tours with the England set up where I’ve experienced different surfaces so I feel I’ve learnt a lot and I’ve got a lot of experience to draw on which could help younger players, if they want it. I’m not the type of person to impose my opinion onto someone but if they come up to me and have questions, I’ll happily give advice.
“I want to finish this tour with the EPP as a main contributor and leading player from this group of players. I want to do well for the team and for the work I’ve put in to put me amongst the best.
“Hopefully if I can achieve that then I can return to Durham at the start of the 2011 to take responsibility as one of our main bowlers and put in those match winning performances that we need to make sure we’re challenging for the Championship again.”
Liam Plunkett will be joined by Ben Stokes on the EPP to Australia, keep an eye out for our interview with him next week.