Cup wounds will sting us and aid title battle insists Rudolph

Yorkshire go into their final game of the season against Kent at Headingley Carnegie today with a chance of claiming their first Championship since 2001.

Yorkshire must beat Kent and hope leaders Nottinghamshire fail to win at Lancashire and that second-placed Somerset do not triumph at Durham.

Only seven points separate the top three, with Nottinghamshire on 205, Somerset 203 and Yorkshire 198.

Rudolph, who has enjoyed another outstanding year in all competitions, said: "I definitely think the experience of losing our semi-final against Warwickshire can help us win the County Championship.

"I'm sure it will spur us on against Kent and hopefully we can round off the season by winning a trophy.

"Kent have been struggling of late and we need to try to capitalise on that. It's a must-win game from our point of view, and it's a match we're certainly capable of winning."

Yorkshire have had a splendid summer regardless of whether they come from behind to claim the prize.

A team tipped by most bookmakers to be relegated have exceeded expectations under captain Andrew Gale and director of professional cricket Martyn Moxon.

"We've had a good year and the thing that's really stood out for me is the way our young players have stepped up to the plate," added Rudolph.

"They've helped us win a number of games, which makes it easier for guys like myself and Anthony McGrath, who are always expected to do well.

"The win against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge last week was a case in point. Moin Ashraf came in and did a great job with the ball on his Championship debut while Johnny Bairstow played another great knock to help us over the line."

Rudolph goes into today's game aiming to become the club's leading Championship run-scorer for a fourth successive year.

But the prolific 29-year-old, who is not expected to return next summer as he looks to force his way back into South Africa's side, faces a battle for supremacy with fellow opener Adam Lyth.

Lyth has scored 1,446 at 53.55, while Rudolph has amassed 1,337 at 53.48.

"It's going to be difficult to overhaul Adam, but I'll be trying my hardest," laughed Rudolph. "Fair play to him – he's had a great season and deserves all the accolades that have come his way.

"On a personal level, I've been pleased with the way it's gone for me this year because I always say that to score 1,000 runs is an average season. I need to be aiming for a lot more than that and it's important to always challenge yourself."