County Championship Division One 2018: Preview

3) Surrey

One of the most consistent County Championship sides only seems to be lacking in the bowling department this time. With Rory Burns stepping up as captain after Gareth Batty, a lot of responsibility on his shoulders but consistent performances and more centuries could put him in the reckoning to make the national side.

Vikram Solanki, Ryan Sidebottom, and Chris Taylor have joined the staff. While the young core of the team that includes Ollie Pope, Amar Virdi (seen as Batty's successor) and Curran brothers adds to the confidence of the team, the presence of the likes of Jason Roy gives them the perfect mix.

Although the unavailability of Mitchell Marsh due to his ankle surgery has left the team a little short-handed, the signing of Morne Morkel on a 2-year Kolpak deal further strengthens the bowling department. The gaping hole due to the exit of Kumar Sangakkara is another worry for the team but there is, however, speculation that Virat Kohli will join them for three matches.

In: Will Jacks, Rikki Clarke, Gus Atkinson

Out: Kumar Sangakkara, Dom Sibley, Ravi Rampaul