Wes Durston has double cause to celebrate after being named as captain of Derbyshire Falcons in the NatWest T20 Blast and signing a one-year contract extension.
The batting all-rounder will lead the Falcons in the Blast this season, with his new deal tying him to the club until the end of the 2016 campaign.
Durston, who hit 278 Blast runs last year at an average of over 25, is the county’s highest run-scorer in Twenty20 cricket and has become a crucial member of the side with his spin also more than useful.
He will continue to feature in four-day and 50-over cricket, where Wayne Madsen will retain his duties as skipper as Derbyshire look to build on a promising campaign last time out.
Graeme Welch, elite performance director at the 3aaa County Ground, said: “Wes consistently scores runs and takes wickets in all forms and we hope this continues.
“He is an outstanding limited-overs player and knows the game inside out. He is also our most experienced Twenty20 player and has led the side before in the one-day format.
“His experience and knowledge will be key as he leads the side during what is a busy part of the summer as we look to progress in the NatWest T20 Blast.
“The move will allow Wayne, who will remain as club captain, to concentrate on scoring runs for the team, leading the side in the longer formats and help him in his push to claim a place in the England side.”