Steven Croft signs new two-year Lancashire deal

The 35-year-old, who was the second-highest run-scorer in the 2019 Royal London Cup, was awarded his testimonial year at the club in 2018

Lancashire allrounder Steven Croft has signed a new two-year deal at the Red Rose county.

The 35-year-old, who was the second-highest run-scorer in the 2019 Royal London Cup behind Derbyshire's Billy Godleman, was awarded his testimonial year at the club in 2018, having made his first-class debut in 2005.

He played in every game of last season's T20 Blast for Dane Vilas’ side as they won the North Group, before narrowly missing out on a trip to Finals Day after being edged out by Essex in a dramatic quarter-final. In one game against Worcestershire at New Road, Croft made 94, his highest score in the format.

Sixteen years on from joining Lancashire’s academy, he has played 168 first-class games, as well as making 145 List A and 168 T20 appearances. Croft, who has made more T20 appearances than anyone else for Lancashire, will also work with the academy and age-group sides in a coaching role, having already attained his Level Four coaching badge.

On his new deal, Croft said: “I am over the moon to have signed another contract with Lancashire. It is an incredibly special place for me and I can’t wait for the new season to come round, my 16th as a professional.

“It means everything to represent the Red Rose. I still get a huge sense of pride whenever I play and I know I have plenty left to give on the field. The desire to perform for this club remains as strong as ever.

“At this stage of my career, whilst I feel like I’ve still got a lot to offer as a player, to have the chance to further my coaching experience by working with the club’s academy and age-group sides, is something that is very important to me.”

Lancashire director of cricket Paul Allott added: “We are thrilled to have Steven on board for another two years. His performances last season more than merited another contract and he was a central part of our squad in all formats.

“He is an extremely versatile player and responded well last year when called upon in different roles within the team.

“There is no one more passionate about the Red Rose, and his extensive experience will help to guide the younger lads in the changing room as well as working with our academy and age-group players, as he continues to gain further coaching experience.”

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