Rhodes took charge at New Road in May 2005

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes says that the 2010 season is starting too early.

The first round of County Championship matches begin on April 9, with Worcestershire entertaining Middlesex.

"The obvious reason why the season is early is that some big money is being put up for tournaments at the end," Rhodes told BBC Hereford & Worcester.

"It's not just the starting early with dampness and cold around, but about when we start our practice games."

The former England wicketkeeper added: "We start against Essex in March and the weather is generally pretty good there.

"That's why we have gone down there for the last five or six years as they have been very accommodating to us.

"Last year there was some good weather in October. I have never known a season start this early."

Worcestershire's winter training has taken place at Malvern College and Rhodes said he has been pleased with his side's preparations.

"We even had a bit of a break from cricket and have used the facilities to play some basketball and badminton.

"I have been really pleased with the way they have been training with Ross Dewar who is our new strength and conditioning coach.

"He is looking at injury prevention and if that means it keeps our bowlers on the field I will be very pleased."

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