Franklin signs up for 2010

James Franklin took 5-30 against Kent to take his championship wicket tally to 31

James Franklin has agreed to return to Gloucestershire as their overseas player next season, subject to agreement from New Zealand Cricket, on the day he was forced to end his 2009 stay early.

Franklin was today called up to New Zealand’s ICC Champions Trophy squad in place of the injured Jacob Oram, meaning he missed the second half of Gloucestershire’s LV= County Championship match against Kent at Bristol.

The 28-year-old also misses their final match of the season against Nottinghamshire in NatWest Pro40 Division One.

Franklin retired on 104 overnight against Kent, having taken 5-30 in their first innings, leaving him with 904 championship runs and 31 wickets in 2009.

Franklin said: “I am delighted to be coming back for another year at Gloucestershire. I have thoroughly enjoyed this season and I am already looking forward to 2010.”

Director of cricket, and countryman, John Bracewell added: “It is very pleasing that James has re-signed for the club for the 2010 season.

“He has demonstrated both his international class with both bat and ball throughout the year and his desire to share his international knowledge with the youth of the club.

“His consistency of performance and behaviour on and off the field provides a great cornerstone for the growth and development of our young team.”