Leicestershire honour Snape

Jeremy Snape has thrived in the shortest form of the game

Jeremy Snape has been awarded a testimonial by Leicestershire for 2008.

The England all-rounder’s five years’ service at Grace Road were recognised by the club after they received a host of letters from members.

Snape, 34, played a prominent role in Leicestershire’s Twenty20 Cup triumphs in 2004 and 2006 - he captained them to glory last summer - and featured in England’s ICC World Twenty20 campaign in September.

With his County Championship appearances becoming increasingly rare, he signed a one-year contract to play as a one-day specialist in 2008.

Leicestershire chairman Neil Davidson said: “The club has granted Jeremy a testimonial in recognition of his contribution on and off the field, and in particular the part he has played in our success in Twenty20 cricket."

Leicestershire enjoy winning the Twenty20 Cup in 2006

“It is a tremendous honour for me to receive this recognition and continues what has been a great time for me at Leicestershire,” said Snape, who arrived from Gloucestershire in 2003.

“I have enjoyed some wonderful success during my career, winning a good number of domestic trophies, and two of the highlights have obviously been hitting the winning runs in one Twenty20 Cup final in 2004 and then leading the side to success in the second one in 2006.

“I still have a lot to offer in the game and hopefully there are more trophies to be won with Leicestershire, so I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead under Paul Nixon's leadership.”

Leicestershire senior coach Tim Boon added: “As well as being a big influence as an all-round player, his experience of the limited-overs game, his tactical awareness and his sports psychology skills have all been key factors in our Twenty20 Cup triumphs in 2004 and 2006.

“While we all hope that he enjoys a rewarding testimonial year, we look forward to him continuing to have a very positive input as a role model in the development of our playing squad.”