New Gloucs deal for Lewis

Jon Lewis led Gloucestershire to NatWest Pro40 success in the 2006 season © Getty Images

Jon Lewis has extended his Gloucestershire contract after a bumper year in which he earned several England call-ups and led the county to the NatWest Pro40 Division Two title.

Lewis is due to fly out for the ICC Champions Trophy in India on Friday, but made sure he secured the deal before he left.

“I am delighted to sign an extension to my existing Gloucestershire contract,” he commented. “I have always felt really proud to be a Gloucestershire player and am looking forward to leading the team to more success on the field.

“I wish to thank everyone for their continued support and I am already looking forward to next season.”

Lewis has also been named as Gloucestershire’s beneficiary for 2007. He was awarded the benefit year in recognition of his 12th year of service for the club.

The 31-year-old took over the club captaincy for the 2006 season and has retained his position for a further year.

He made his Gloucestershire debut in 1995 and has been a prolific wicket taker in county cricket ever since.

He finally burst onto the international stage during the first International Twenty20 to be staged in England, in 2005, taking 4-24.

He has since played in seven one-day internationals and made his Test debut for England against Sri Lanka at Trent Bridge earlier this year.