Somerset fast bowler Steffan Jones who missed part of the 2002 season through injury has just resumed his training in preparation for next season.

Earlier this week the twenty eight year old paceman, who got married earlier in the autumn told me: "I've had a good break and now I have just started training ready for the new season. I am a bit later this year and have timed my programme to get me to my peak at the right time for the start of the 2003 season."

He continued: "For the next few weeks I shall be working on my fitness levels, but after Christmas I'll start to focus on my skills. I shall be working on my bowling with Kevin Shine and we are hoping to improve my momentum at the crease, and I will also be looking to develop my batting."

After setting himself the target of taking more wickets and making his mark on the England one day scene, the 2002 season turned out to be rather disappointing for the Welshman.

He injured himself during the first match of the season at Millfield School from which he never fully recovered, although he did play for Wales against England at Cardiff.

Steffan Jones is already looking forward to next season, but is under no illusion that 2003 is going to be tough for him.

During a break from his weight training he told me: "I need to work hard this winter. With Nixon Mc Lean having already joined us, and more new signings likely there is going to be a lot of competition to get into the side and I want to make sure that I am in the start line up for next season."

© SOMERSET