PETER HANDSCOMB will remain captain of Leicestershire for 2024 after signing a new one-year deal with the club. This new deal cements his status after a breakout 2023 campaign. Under his captaincy, Leicestershire won the One Day Cup, a crowning moment for a talented side. The 34-year-old Aussie now misses the next month as their campaign sputters toward a finish line. They are currently playing hard in the chase for promotion to County Championship Division One.
Having arrived at the start of the 2023 season, Handscomb quickly established himself as a key asset. He’s made 601 runs in 11 matches, which puts him as the third-highest run scorer for his team this season. His performance has been instrumental in guiding Leicestershire to the brink of returning to the top-flight of English county cricket.
Leicestershire are the runaway leaders of Division Two at this moment in time, 52 points clear of third-placed Derbyshire. That’s a minor issue compared to Handscomb’s unavailability for the final three games this month, which is a huge loss. He’s scheduled to head back home to Australia to play in Victoria’s domestic season. Shan Masood will fill the void and become Leicestershire’s second overseas player. He’ll be paired with Logan van Beek for the remainder of the four-day campaign.
Even with his notable absence moving forward, Handscomb is still confident that his team has what it takes to go far.
“There’s still a bit of work to do with the final three games coming up, but the boys are in a really good place. I’ll definitely be watching the games from home.” – Peter Handscomb
Leicestershire have not reached the top flight since the County Championship was divided into two divisions at the turn of the century. They’ve been working to change that ever since. He said it was his hope to get this milestone done while he was on the job.
“To come back as a Division One player and a Division One club would be something special.” – Peter Handscomb
With just one more win needed to secure promotion, Leicestershire’s players are focused on maintaining their momentum in Handscomb’s absence. The upcoming matches will be crucial as they strive to make history and elevate their status within English county cricket.
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