SUSSEX general manager Dave Gilbert reckons other counties are missing out by overlooking Michael Di Venuto.

Aussie Gilbert is "stunned" that Durham did not snap up Di Venuto as their overseas player for next season to join forces with fellow Tasmanian David Boon.

"We are hearing whispers that a couple of counties have showed an interest and we are still hopeful for him," said Gilbert.

"He had a dry start for us and a few people were wondering how he was going to go. But I always felt he would come good once he adapted to English wickets.

"He has averaged 40 in the Sheffield Shield in the last six years, so he is a quality player.

"But his biggest impact has been the type of player he is. The guys love him and they are so sad to see him go.

"An obscenely talented overseas player is not always a total team man.

What you might describe as a second tier player often more than makes up for that by being an ace bloke.

"Performances are vital, but people are a lot more forgiving if he fits in well. It's all about the total package and that was critical in us selecting Michael in the first place."

Gilbert's remarks ironically coincided with a rare failure for Di Venuto.

His duck against Notts at Hove yesterday leaves him 23 short of 1,000 Championship runs for the season.

The left-hander still has his second and final innings for Sussex to reach the landmark before flying out on Sunday to play for Australia A in a one-day series against India in Los Angeles.

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