Ryan says thanks to Essex coaches

8:52am Tuesday 6th May 2008

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RYAN ten Doeschate has paid tribute to Essex coaches Graham Gooch and Graeme Welch after recording career-best bowling figures in this weekend's defeat to the New Zealanders.

The South African-born all-rounder took six for 57 in the Kiwis' first innings, removing Brendon McCullum, Jacob Oram and centurion James Marshall in the process.

Unfortunately for the Netherlands star, his efforts proved to be in vain as the tourists completed a 92-run victory on Monday, but ten Doeschate was still pleased with his efforts.

"I would have preferred six wickets in a Championship innings as it would have had a bigger impact on our season, but this is still a reward for all the hard work I've put in on my bowling," said the 27-year-old.

"Of all the people who have coached me with my bowling it may seem a little odd that it was something Graham Gooch advised that has probably made the most difference by changing my position at the crease.

"In addition, bowling coach Graeme Welch has advised a more relaxed approach and that seems to have worked too.

"Graeme has told me that being patient gets wickets and that seems to have worked.

Ten Doeschate has long earmarked his bowling as a the major improvement he needs to make to take his game to the next level.And the popular player, who starred for his adopted country at the 2007 ICC World Cup, is aiming to continue that improvement this summer.

"At the moment I'm still no more than fourth or fifth bowler in the side but if I can continue improving my consistency - which is the key - then I can become an increasingly important part of the attack," he added.

The Dutchman has also taken six wickets at 19.66 in Essex's opening two LV County Championship matches.