Smith handed Worcestershire benefit

Worcestershire have awarded former captain Ben Smith a benefit year in 2009.

Smith, 36, joined Worcestershire in 2002 and has scored over 28,000 runs in all cricket, averaging more than 40 in the first-class game.

Ben Smith averages 45 in the LV County Championship this season for Worcestershire

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The diminutive right-handed batsman began his career with Leicestershire, breaking into their first team in 1990.

He succeeded Graeme Hick as Worcestershire skipper in 2003 but controversially stepped down mid-match in August 2004 to concentrate on his batting.

Worcestershire chief executive Mark Newton said: "Once we had received the request from some members to consider awarding Ben a benefit year, it took no time at all to agree.

“Ben is a wonderful professional cricketer who is still at the top of his game. He has just signed for a further two years and we hope our members and supporters will help Ben make a success of the year."

Smith added: "I am delighted that the club have awarded me a benefit year for 2009. Since joining Worcestershire in 2002 I have had some brilliant times and have thoroughly enjoyed making contributions to the team on and off the field.

“I now look forward to an exciting year ahead based around the Ashes and a Twenty20 World Cup whilst aiming for more successes with the team and club.”