Benefit of doubt for Loye

Mal Loye

England one-day batsman Mal Loye has been awarded a benefit in 2008 by Lancashire despite having only joined the county in 2003.

Loye spent 12 years with his home county Northamptonshire before signing with Lancashire and has now scored over 13,000 first class runs at an average of 41.

Loye was summoned by England from grade cricket in New Zealand for the 2006-07 CB Series in Australia when Michael Vaughan suffered a hamstring injury.

He was quick to employ his trademark slog-sweep shot to the bowling of Australia’s Brett Lee during his debut - a shot that produced a six - but he struggled to make a significant score and was caught behind the wicket several times during the series.

His first taste of England honours came when he was selected in the Under 19s and again for England A in 1993.

Lancashire chairman Jack Simmons said: “We a highly delighted to announce that Mal Loye will be officially given a benefit in 2008.

“I know one or two people will question that he hasn’t played for Lancashire for a number of years, but what Mal has given to county cricket both with Northants and us, we always regard that as ‘giving something to the game'.

“What he has done for the club to date has been superb. He has endeared himself to everyone associated with Lancashire, and there isn’t a nicer player in the sport.”

Loye added: “Not only do I feel proud and privileged to play for Lancashire, but to be awarded a benefit by such as prestigious club is a great honour, and I would like to thank them for their support.”