he played two more tests against new zealand the following summer, but thereafter the selectors' minds turned decisively towards underwood and gifford never played test cricket again. he contented himself with consistent displays in county cricket, leading worcestershire to another county championship triumph in 1974, for which he was named as a wisden cricketer of the year. later he played for worcestershire's great rivals warwickshire, whom he joined for the 1983 season. that year he took 104 first-class wickets, the final time he was to reach the 100 mark.