CLUB captain Tom Abell described the mood in the Somerset camp as being “as good as I’ve experienced”, with the players now back in training ahead of next season.

Abell spoke to the County Gazette as attentions turn towards 2021, and Somerset aim to pick up some silverware.

Abell on his post-2020 season break

“We had three or four weeks to reset and switch off, but inevitably it’s hard to do that,” the skipper said.

“You’re always thinking about the season, how we did and how we can improve.

“It was a good chance to reflect with clarity, as you can’t always do that during the season.

“We’ve played some really good cricket in the last couple of years, so the next step is to find that consistency and win trophies.”

Abell on the return to training

“[The mood] is fantastic, as good as I’ve experienced.

“Just missing out on the Bob Willis Trophy only drives us to want more, and the attitude and intensity shown in training has been brilliant.

“We will have very good numbers [training at Taunton] over the winter, as opportunities to play overseas are limited, so it’s good to push each other, and we’re so lucky with the coaches we have at the club.

“We’ve done a little bit of everything so far - a fair bit of fitness and strength and conditioning work, but everyone has given some time to working on their skills as well.

“It’s really pleasing to see people hitting balls and trying to get better.”

Abell on new signing Marchant de Lange

“He’s made a huge impression already.

“It’s very clear that he’s here to win, and wants to be part of a successful side.

“He’s a fantastic character, and we know from playing against him that he’s a 100 per cent man.

“He’s a lovely bloke too - and it’s nice to have him on our team rather than facing him!

“He adds energy and an X-factor - he’s a brilliant acquisition for us.”

Abell on pace bowling selection headaches ahead

“Selection dilemmas are great for us.

“There’s as much competition within the squad as I’ve ever seen here, and we need that quality to win things.

“Our recruitment has been fantastic, and that complements the players coming through here.

“Our squad seems settled now, with a good core of young players and some experience too.

“We’ve won a lot of matches, but ultimately that’s not been enough, and we want to bring more trophies back.”

Abell on the revised County Championship format for 2021

“As players we’re just desperate to play, and it’s exciting to have a full season ahead.

“I’m an exponent of the County Championship being played in two divisions, and my stance on that hasn’t changed.

“For what we want to achieve, there’s no change - we want to win every competition, regardless of the format.”

Abell on having fans back in the Cooper Associates County Ground in 2021

"It would mean a huge amount to everyone at the club.

“There’s a real family feel at the club - it’s what makes Somerset such a special club to be a part of, and it’s just not the same without our members and supporters.

“I may be biased, but for me Taunton is one of the best places to play cricket, and part of that is that we are so well supported.

“We want to be a team that Somerset supporters can be proud of and that they enjoy watching.”