Peters handed 2013 benefit

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Northamptonshire have rewarded opening batsman Stephen Peters for seven seasons of service with a benefit year in 2013.

Peters, who turns 34 in December, began his career at Essex and joined Northants from Worcestershire ahead of the 2006 campaign.

The right-hander has hit over 7,000 runs, with a top score of 222, at an average of 40.9 in 108 first-class games for Northants. He has also struck 1,492 runs in 56 List A matches for the county, whom he has made 14 Twenty20 appearances for.

Peters said: "I'm absolutely delighted, and it's a very proud moment for me. All my thanks go to Northants Cricket for awarding me this great honour for 2013.

“Hopefully, everyone can see the hard work I've put in and hopefully I have many more years with the county ahead of me - I'd love to be part of a team that wins some silverware too."

Stephen Peters has hit over 7,000 runs, with a top score of 222, at an average of 40.9 in 108 first-class games for Northamptonshire

"Overall, I'm chuffed to bits. Next year is going to a good one. It will be a lot of hard work but I hope to put on some great events which everyone can enjoy."

Northants chief executive David Smith said: "I am personally delighted that Stephen has been awarded a much-deserved benefit year in 2013. This reflects his outstanding contribution to the game since he made his first-class debut in 1996."

"He is a very popular member of the dressing room and has a big contribution to make towards Northants cricket over the coming years."

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