Allround diamond

The Championship pennant was on its way to Trent Bridge long before stumps were drawn on this fantastic summer and will flutter from the famous old pavilion for the first time since the golden years of Clive Rice and Sir Richard Hadlee 18 years ago.

The coach Mike Newell paid tribute to Mark Ealham, the former Kent allrounder, who has proved to be one of the shrewdest signings in recent years. "This season he has been brilliant with the ball with twice as many wickets as last summer when he averaged 45 with the bat and the bowling wasn't quite so effective. He's a diamond and just loves playing and performing. He provides so many options and I couldn't believe it when a player of his calibre came on the market."

Stephen Fleming's leadership has also been a key element in encouraging better performances from the younger players, while Newell's recruitment policy meant bowlers could be rotated and were fresh for the run-in.

Other signings who have thrived are Ryan Sidebottom, David Hussey and Graeme Swann: each of them produced match-winning performances as last season's second division champions made it two titles on the bounce with their positive cricket. MS

Player of the Year Mark Ealham his first 50-wicket haul in 17 seasons, 56 at 20.80.
High The win at Canterbury which sealed the title.
Low Losing two on the trot at home to Kent and Hampshire.