Why Crocombe learnt so much on England Lions trip
Henry Crocombe says a winter trip with England Lions has set him up for the Sussex season.
The seam bowler took match figures of 6-71 on his first outing of the season as the county enjoyed an impressive nine-wicket win away to Hampshire.
He worked with Dalee Steyn while with the national set-up and has reaped the benefits.
Crocombe said: 'The Lions tour was really good. I love going to Cape Town and it was a great group of lads. It was a great tour. It was exciting to be in and around an England squad.
'Steyn was like anyone else, he came in and spoke to us like he was just an ordinary guy, which was quite surprising.
'He was very inspirational. He spoke a lot about the mental side of the game which was handy.
'Dale would say that in practice he didn't necessarily care where the ball went as long as his speeds were up.
'He had to be at match intensity all the time and that is something I have been guilty of at times – not bowling to my full speed all the time.
'Even 5mph makes a massive difference for me so speaking to him about it was handy.
'It can hurt bowling fast but sometimes you have to get through it and you can get your rewards.
'There is a skill level difference between county and international cricket but a lot of it is mental. I think I have learned that more and more over the last few years. You have to back yourself and be confident in yourself otherwise you aren't going to get there.
'Rhythm is a massive thing for me, I'm a confidence bowler. When I'm in rhythm it really builds my confidence and you find a few mph out of nowhere.
'You're steaming in and then the ball is moving more.'
Sussex attention now switches to a Vitality T20 Blast campaign which opens against Middlesex at Lord's on Thursday.
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