Anuj Dal, the amiable and popular Derbyshire CCC all-rounder attended the Society’s November meeting to participate in a Question and Answer session.

Anuj won a full contract in 2019 but grabbed his chance with the arrival of Mickey Arthur. He scored 957 runs - at an average of 73.61 - as well as taking 34 wickets during the 2022 season, leading Arthur to describe him as "the heart and core of Derbyshire County Cricket Club".

Dal grew up through Nottinghamshire's age group sides but was released at the end of 2017. He impressed for Derbyshire's 2nd XI the following summer, making his first-class debut as a concussion substitute at Hove.

Away from the field, he was elected as vice-chair of the Professional Cricketers' Association in 2021 and spoke eloquently about his experiences of racism during the parliamentary hearings of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport select committee. He has a contract at the County Ground until 2026.

Anuj answered questions on his career to date, his ambitions, and his work with the Professional Cricket Association. His candid, honest and eloquent approach and clear passion for cricket was enjoyed by all.

Neil Swanwick