Contract extension and vice-captaincy for Leicestershire’s Callum Parkinson

The 24-year old spinner will be Colin Ackermann’s number two during the 2021 season

County Cricket squad updates

Callum Parkinson has signed a contract extension to remain at Leicestershire until at least the end of the 2023 season.

The 24-year old has also been installed as Colin Ackermann’s vice-captain for the upcoming season.

Parkinson, who arrived at the Uptonsteel County Ground from Derbyshire in 2017, has quickly become an integral part of both Leicestershire’s red and white-ball set-ups.

The left-arm spinner picked up 10 wickets at an economy of just 6.56 as the Running Foxes reached the T20 Blast quarter-finals while also claiming 24 wickets, including career best figures of 10 for 185, in the Bob Willis Trophy.

Commenting on both the extension and his vice-captaincy, Parkinson said: "I am very honoured and humbled to be named vice-captain under Colin Ackermann.

"I am delighted with the news and really pleased with the faith that Sean [Jarvis], Nico [Paul Nixon], and the club have shown in me.

Proud day! Delighted to commit for the next 3 years with @leicsccc ! Honoured to be named vice captain, exciting times ahead 🦊❤️ https://t.co/gZzEM7G9N8

— Callum Parkinson (@cal_parky) February 9, 2021

"We have had a quite change in group during my time at the club, we have lost a lot of senior players recently, and it’s time for me to grow up and take a bit of responsibility within the group.

"I am massively delighted with it. I look forward to assisting Colin, and help move the club forward.

"There is a good identity coming with the club at the minute, with the Running Foxes and the new breed, and there is a genuine belief that we can do some special things moving forward."

Meanwhile, head coach, Paul Nixon, added: "We’re delighted that Callum has signed a new deal and become our vice-captain too. Callum is a highly valued and respected member of our group, and we saw him continue to perform consistently and show growth throughout the 2020 season.

"He is a player that others look up to and we feel that now is the time for Callum to take on a leadership role. It will only help his development as a fine slow left arm spin bowler in all formats, and he is also highly capable with the bat."