Richard Gleeson: A Vital Addition to Warwickshire for T20 Blast

Gleeson Joins Warwickshire

Warwickshire County Cricket Club has announced the signing of England T20 pace bowler Richard Gleeson, a strategic move following his release from Lancashire. At 36, Gleeson’s experience and skill are set to add significant value to the Birmingham Bears in the upcoming T20 Blast season.

A Proven Performer for T20 Squad

Gleeson’s contract includes all group games of the T20 Blast and, potentially, Finals Day, should Warwickshire qualify. Gavin Larsen, Warwickshire’s performance director, highlighted the bowler’s importance: “It adds another quality, proven bowler to our T20 squad,” he said. “He offers a skill-set that will be vital, alongside Hassan Ali, at both ends of the innings.”

Gleeson’s Edgbaston Return

The fast bowler is scheduled to make his Bears debut against Nottinghamshire on 1st June at Edgbaston. This venue holds a special place for Gleeson, who made a remarkable England T20 debut there in July 2022. He reminisced, “It’s somewhere that’s close to my heart after making my England debut there. I can’t wait to get out in front of that home crowd again, take a few poles and win some games.” His debut was marked by the dismissals of Indian cricket stars Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Virat Kohli.

A Journey Marked by Persistence and Success

Richard Gleeson’s cricketing journey is one of late bloom and perseverance. Beginning in club cricket with Blackpool and playing for Cumberland at Minor Counties level, he didn’t step into first-class cricket until 27, signing with Northamptonshire in 2015. His tenure at Northamptonshire was successful, culminating in a Finals Day appearance, which he unfortunately missed due to injury. His move to Lancashire in 2018 further elevated his career, where he claimed 47 County Championship wickets in 2019.

Injuries have been a recurring theme in Gleeson’s career, yet his resilience is evident. Despite a wrist injury in 2023, he returned for the Men’s Hundred and recently played in the International League in the Persian Gulf. His T20-only contract with Lancashire in 2022 saw him become the leading wicket-taker in the Blast, earning him an England call-up and five additional caps, as well as a reserve spot in Buttler’s victorious T20 World Cup campaign.

Gleeson’s signing with Warwickshire signifies not just a new chapter in his career but also a valuable addition to the team’s bowling arsenal. His journey, marked by determination and impressive performances, makes him an intriguing figure to watch in the upcoming T20 Blast.