Blackpool bowler dismisses England captain Cook

Blackpool CC stalwart Richard Gleeson lived a cricketing dream yesterday when he dismissed the England captain.

Bowling for the first time this season for Northamptonshire in the County Championship, the 28-year-old seamer from Blackpool had Alastair Cook caught by wicketkeeper Adam Rossington on the opening day of the division two match against Essex at Chelmsford.

Removing the England skipper for 65 was Gleeson’s sole success as his 18 overs went for 77 and the hosts closed on 335-3.

This is paceman Gleeson’s third Championship match. He made his debut against Glamorgan last August and took two wickets, having been granted a trial after impressing for Cumberland in minor counties cricket.

He has taken over 700 wickets in 15 Northern League seasons for Blackpool, including 90 last year.

Gleeson is still registered to play for his hometown club this season if his Northants commitments allow.