Swann lands 2012 benefit

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England spinner Graeme Swann has been granted a benefit year by Nottinghamshire.

Swann joined Notts from Northamptonshire in 2005 and has since enjoyed a rise to prominence as an England regular in all formats.

The 33-year-old remains central to England's plans having taken 192 wickets in 46 Tests, a record even more prolific than his 156 wickets from 67 first-class appearances for Notts.

Graeme Swann's 192 wickets in 46 Tests is more prolific than his 156 wickets from 67 first-class appearances for Nottinghamshire

"Next year will be a busy year for me with the Ashes defence on English soil and the Champions Trophy and I'm honoured that the Notts committee have seen fit to reward me with a benefit year," said Swann.

"I know that I can count on the support of my team-mates and friends in the game and my plan is to have a series of small events for cricket supporters to enjoy."

He added: "The one thing that was missing from the schedule in 2009 was a Trent Bridge Ashes Test because I grew up watching them and I'm desperate to play next year.

"England have a good record at Trent Bridge and we're confident that we can make a winning start here and retain the Ashes."

Notts chairman Peter Wright said: "Graeme's success on the international scene is a source of great pride for our club and he is thoroughly deserving of a benefit year.

"He has played his part in two championship-winning campaigns and has always been an advocate for the staging of major matches at Trent Bridge."

Swann becomes the first Notts beneficiary since Ryan Sidebottom's campaign in 2010. The club’s former batsman Darren Bicknell, now a member of its committee, has been appointed to Swann's benefit committee.

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