Clarke joined Derbyshire from Surrey in October 2007 (Getty Images)

Derbyshire captain Rikki Clarke is sure his side can have a successful season, ahead of their County Championship opener at Gloucestershire on Wednesday.

Clarke is one of five new signings included in a 12-man squad.

He told BBC Radio Derby: "We know we have a very good chance to do something special this year.

"But the most important thing is to improve from last year. If we keep improving through the years then we will win trophies."

Kevin Dean, who has a knee injury, is the only Derbyshire player to miss the match.