Capel's side reached the T20 quarter-finals for the third consecutive season

Northants head coach David Capel believes they have the young players to make 2011 a more successful season.

His side have been hit by injuries this term, and finished sixth in the County Championship, fifth in the CB40 and reached the Twenty20 quarter-finals.

Capel told BBC Radio Northampton: "There was unfortunate timing to the injuries to key personnel.

"But it gave a great opportunity to our younger players, who've given us a taster of what they're capable of."

He added: "I'm really pleased with the progress of Jack Brooks, Alex Wakely and Rob Newton.

"David Murphy has been tremendous. He stepped in when Niall O'Brien was out injured, and the quality of his glovework was one of the most pleasing aspects of this season.

"It's good for the future of Northants cricket."

South African all-rounder Johann van der Wath had expressed a desire to return to Wantage Road next season but Capel confirmed a deal is unlikely.

"Unfortunately, it's not possible for Johann to come back. We're having a look at [former wicket-keeper and batsman] Rikki Wessels but that's also uncertain."

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