The marquee signing that, every year, gives Surrey such a boost in pre-season

One of Surrey’s most important recruits has been occupying the eastern end of the square at the Kia Oval for more than a decade now and is described by director of cricket Alec Stewart as "a godsend”.

Preparing for any campaign takes many hours of planning by county coaches. Stay in this country and you are at the mercy of the weather. Head abroad and the warm weather training – plus getting everyone together in a tight group – has its benefits but conditions are alien to those you will encounter in the usually chilly and often damp days of early April.

Surrey hit on a highly successful compromise, a marquee which covers several pitches on the edge of the square, offering more realistic conditions than can be found indoors.