Suppiah given benefit year

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Opening batsman Arul Suppiah has been awarded a benefit year in 2013 by Somerset.

The 29-year-old, who has proved useful in all forms either for his batting or left-arm spin, made his debut for the county in 2002.

He has played 94 first-class games, scored over 5,000 runs and boasts world-record bowling figures in Twenty20 cricket having claimed 6-5 against Glamorgan last year.

He said: “I am thrilled that the club has granted me this fantastic opportunity. I have been involved with Somerset for all of my adult life and I am really looking forward to having a successful season both on and off the field.”

Chairman Andy Nash said: “Arul has been a tremendous servant to the club and we are delighted to be able to award him a benefit for the coming season. He has been an integral part of first team for a number of years so this is richly deserved.”

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