"We've Learned A lot, but There's Still A Lot of Cricket Left" | Claude Henderson Reflects on the 2026 Season So Far.

Director of Cricket Claude Henderson has reflected honestly on Leicestershire’s challenging opening months of the 2026 season, while insisting there remains belief, unity and confidence within the group heading into a crucial period of the summer.

The Foxes’ return to Division One has provided tough lessons, while a difficult start to the Vitality Blast campaign was finally lifted by a first victory of the competition against Lancashire.

Speaking in a catch-up interview, Henderson admitted the start to the season has not matched pre-season expectations - but stressed the spirit and determination inside the dressing room remains strong.

“Division One has been tough, I've got to be honest,” Henderson said.

“But at the same time, there's been a lot of lessons learned - not just from the players, but also staff and myself.

“It’s not a lack of trying, I can assure you. There's a lot of energy in the changing room, they've stuck together.”

Despite results not always falling in the Foxes’ favour, Henderson pointed to positive performances against strong opposition including Surrey and Glamorgan as proof that the side can compete at the level.

The key challenge now, he believes, is turning promising spells into sustained performances.

“We've had various pockets of very good cricket,” he explained.

“But there were areas where we probably lost a session or half a session - and you can't afford that in Division One. Things happen faster, it happens quicker. We just need a bit more consistency and to stick to the basics for longer periods.”

With two Rothesay County Championship fixtures still to come between Blast blocks - and six more red-ball matches later in the season - Henderson believes there is ample opportunity for the side to build momentum.

He also acknowledged injuries have played their part in disrupting continuity during the early months of the campaign.

“There’s no excuses, but we’ve had a bit of an unlucky start with injuries,” he said.

“Those guys are getting back now and that’s important for us at this stage of the season.”

The Director of Cricket also addressed conversations around tactics, style of play and adapting to stronger Division One opposition.

“There have been discussions about getting back to our strengths and doing what worked for us last year,” Henderson admitted.

“When you face stronger opposition, they can take you away from those strengths a little bit. That’s something we’ve spoken about internally.”

After finally getting a Vitality Blast win on the board at Emirates Old Trafford, Henderson hopes confidence can now begin to build within a white-ball squad still finding its rhythm.

“We’ve got a new squad and finding the right methods isn’t always easy,” he said.

“We haven’t played our best T20 cricket - that’s the honest opinion - but a win always helps. It gives the team confidence.

“There’s so much talent in this squad with individuals who can win you games. It’s a case of confidence, momentum and sticking together.”

Henderson also delivered updates on a number of injured players, confirming Tom Scriven is progressing well in his recovery.

“He’s bowling as we speak,” Henderson said.

“He’s aiming to play in a Second XI game and hopefully puts his name in the hat again very soon.”

On Sol Budinger, following his collision against Lancashire, Henderson confirmed early signs have been encouraging.

“Sol’s had an X-ray and there’s no fractures,” he said.

“He’ll have an MRI scan to check the ligaments, but thankfully it doesn’t appear as serious as it first looked.”

Away from the men’s side, Henderson was also quick to praise the strong start made by Leicestershire Foxes Women, highlighting their recent victory at Lord’s and the positive atmosphere around the group.

“The women have had a great start,” he said.

“There’s a really good vibe around the group, the players are enjoying themselves, and that’s hugely important.”

Looking ahead to the rest of the season, Henderson reinforced his belief in the direction of the club - and reiterated that work continues behind the scenes to strengthen the cricket department wherever possible.

“The vision is always to strengthen our squad and strengthen our cricket department,” he said.

“There’s still so much cricket left. We’ve got to stick together, work hard - which the boys are doing-— and stay positive.”

And Henderson had one final message for supporters:

“Just stick with us. Trust what we’re doing. There’s still a lot of cricket left this season.”