Ben Smith is stumped during last season's Twenty20 defeat by Northants

Worcestershire's experienced batsman Ben Smith admits that his benefit year affected his on-field performances.

Smith was confident that he could cope with the extra workload but was surprised by the impact it had on his form during the 2009 season.

"It has been a tough year," Smith told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "And the benefit has taken its toll on me."

Smith, 37, had his worst season in eight years at New Road, hitting just 565 runs in 13 Championship matches.

And he made just 288 runs in 15 one-day knocks, as well as 171 runs in the Twenty20 Cup.

"Unfortunately it took so much time out of my private life and my cricket that they did suffer," added the former Worcestershire skipper.

I am not sure I was totally focused on my preparations, purely because I had other things going on in my life at that time with the benefit year Ben Smith

"It has been the case before, where I have had poor starts to the season, I have turned it around midway and then finished strongly to end up being the top run-scorer in the county.

"But this year it just wouldn't turn for me and I am going to put it down to the way I prepared.

"I did all my nets, did all my fielding and everything but I am not sure I was totally focused on my preparations, purely because I had other things going on in my life with the benefit year."

The 37-year-old former Leicestershire player said that, while it had been tough in the current economic climate, his benefit committee members had worked really hard on his behalf.

"I am so grateful for those people who have supported me throughout the year.

"Some of the finances I have raised this year will be going to charity but most of it will basically be going into the benefit fund.

"We have had some really enjoyable events with some good golf days, cricket matches, balls and dinners.

"I was prepared to put the hard work into the benefit year but I didn't realise how little reward I would get.

"There has been a bit of fun along the way but it has been very difficult as it has been backs against the wall when it comes to the recession.

"I have had to call in a few favours from friends and they have helped and everybody had a bit of fun along the way."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version