Leatherdale extends his contract

David Leatherdale, Worcestershire's veteran allrounder, has extended his one-day contract for another year. Leatherdale, 36, made his debut for Worcestershire in 1988, and after ending his first-class career in 2003, his benefit year, continued to play one-day cricket.

Leatherdale has chipped in with some valuable innings in the National League and C & G Trophy this season, where he is averaging 41, but his main contribution has been with the ball. He has taken 11 wickets in the National League, at an average just under 30, and is averaging just 9.80, with five wickets, from four C & G Trophy games.

"It can't be easy coming into the side after maybe a week or more away from the team but David has done a superb job for us and still leads by example," said Ben Smith, Worcestershire's captain. "I am glad he is going to be around again next season. He is also still a key part of our bowling unit, and his fielding still sets the standard for the rest of us."