Richard Williams

Universally known as 'Reggie', there are few more committed cricketers in the country than Richard Williams. A keeper of truly exceptional ability, he has been unfortunate enough to play understudy to Jack Russell. Indeed, it has been suggested that Williams is one of the five best keepers in the country, and few who have seen him could argue with that assessment.

After 11 years at Gloucestershire, during which he rightly won his county cap, the Bristol-born player has been allowed to leave the club to search for a new county where he can cement a first team space. This will allow Steven Pope, following a tour with England Under 19s, to stand next in line to Russell. Over more than a decade, Williams has only played 44 first-class games, though he was given five opportunities this summer after Russell slipped a disc. In the season he grabbed 15 catches and a stumping, though his batting was not impressive, a part of his game which has let him down. He has not made a first-class century, and looks vulnerable against the shorter ball.

Keeping wicket clearly comes naturally to Williams. He is a fairly orthodox keeper, a very clean taker of the ball, and nerveless catcher. As with most English keepers, he is most confident standing back to the quicker bowling than up to the spinners. Gloucester members and fans will not begrudge Williams his move, and will wish him well. He has been a marvellous servant to the club, postponing retirement and a school coaching spot to back up Russell. (Sean Beynon, Copyright CricInfo January 2002)