Before we had ever heard of Covid-19, it was clear that county cricket had a peculiar ability to soothe a troubled mind. Now fans are coming out of lockdown and getting back into grounds, its meaning is even more important.

Right now, life is perfect for traditional county cricket fans but, by the end of the season, they might be outnumbered and outgunned. The Hundred is on the horizon and they must finally face the future head-on.