Gleeson secures three-year county deal

Gleeson was elated at the news as he fulfilled his hopes of playing county cricket on a full-time basis.

He said: “It’s great to become a more permanent part of the squad.

“I have enjoyed my games so far, and I’m obviously pleased that I’ve made a positive impact.

“To be able to play and develop my cricket with the coaches and other players at Northamptonshire is such an exciting prospect and I hope we can carry on fighting hard and winning matches.”

Having initially arrived on trial at the recommendation of James Middlebrook after impressing the former Steelbacks spinner while playing Minor Counties cricket for Cumberland, Gleeson has grabbed his opportunity to shine as injuries have hit the side.

He has contributed across all formats but has been particularly impressive in the NatWest T20 Blast campaign.

Head coach David Ripley said: “Richard’s bowling figures speak for themselves. He has made a huge impact on the games in which he has played.

“I believe there is a lot more to come from him and I am pleased he is going to be a more permanent part of our future.

“I would like to thank the Lancashire Cricket Board (where Gleeson worked as a coach) for allowing Richard the opportunity to play this summer and earn a contract.”

He joined Northants with the full support of Blackpool CC.

He has helped Northants to the top of the standings in the northern group of the NatWestT20 Blast competition.

Gleeson played a key part in the thrashing of their nearest rivals Birmingham Bears when they won by eight wickets on the Duckworth-Lewis method at Edgbaston.

In a match reduced to 16 overs per side, Birmingham mustered a paltry 86 for eight against an excellent collective bowling effort headed by Gleeson’s competition-best three for 12 from four overs.