Richard Gleeson extends Lancashire T20 deal by two years

After almost being forced into retirement due to injury, Gleeson signed a T20 contract with Lancashire last summer and ended as the Blast's leadging wicket-taker

Richard Gleeson has agreed a new two-year T20 deal with Lancashire, a year after coming close to retiring from the game due to injury.

The fast bowler enjoyed a terrific 2022 campaign, ending the T20 Blast as its leading wicket-taker, which saw him rewarded with an international debut against India, where he dismissed Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant.

He has made five further appearances for England and was a travelling reserve as they won the T20 World Cup in Australia. He then went on to represent Gulf Giants in the ILT20.

"I am really pleased to sign another T20 contract with Lancashire," he said.

"It was brilliant to play a key role as we reached the final of the Vitality Blast last summer and a bonus to finish as the Blast's leading wicket-taker.

"To then make my England debut and be part of a squad that lifted the T20 World Cup was a dream come true and something that I would never have imagined doing this time last year.

^{Gleeson featured in the T20 Blast final against Hampshire (Alex Davidson/Getty Images)}

"I have felt in good rhythm during the international and franchise cricket that I have played this winter."

Gleeson moved to focus on T20 cricket last summer after his fitness troubles, which meant he missed much of the previous two summers.

Lancashire head coach Glen Chapple added: "We are delighted to have secured Richard's services once again for the Vitality Blast – following his outstanding performances in last summer's competition.

"It was great to see Richard back to full fitness, bowling fast, taking wickets and playing in 16 matches for us after coming through his injury problems of the past couple of seasons.

"We have all been delighted to see him gain deserved England recognition and then have a successful winter playing franchise cricket – we're looking forward to welcoming him back into the fold in the coming weeks ahead of the Blast."

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