Leicestershire County Cricket Club to bid farewell to Ackermann, Parkinson and Wright at the end of 2023 season
Leicestershire lose three key players at the end of the season
In a significant development, Leicestershire T20 captain Colin Ackermann, left-arm spinner Callum Parkinson and seamer Chris Wright have rejected new contracts with the Foxes and will leave at the end of this season.
The departure of Ackermann, 32, who has scored almost 7,000 runs in his seven seasons with Leicestershire across all formats is a big blow to the club. The Netherlands international is also their leading T20 run-scorer.
Parkinson’s exit comes as a surprise. The 26-year-old bowler has taken over 234 wickets for Leicestershire and had an excellent red-ball season in which he picked up fifty wickets.
The experienced Wright arrived from Warwickshire two years ago and contributed significantly to Leicestershire’s success during his tenure by taking 181 wickets for them across formats.
All three players are determined to play important roles until they depart from Grace Road after making great contributions to Leicester’s cricketing history.
“Disappointed” but grateful
Giving his reaction on this news, Claude Henderson said that it was “disappointing” news but added that they were “truly grateful for their incredible service”.
Henderson further stated that despite their desire to retain these star performers’ services, changes in playing squads are expected in professional sport. Still, supporters can rest assured knowing work has been ongoing behind-the-scenes to assemble teams capable of challenging in all formats.
Ackermann leaves behind lasting legacy
Ackermann will be remembered fondly by Leicester supporters as one of the club’s greatest all-rounders. He has been a key performer in all forms of cricket for the Foxes and holds several records, including the remarkable achievement of taking 7-18 against Birmingham Bears at Grace Road in 2019 – a T20 World Record.
Parkinson’s departure raises questions
Meanwhile, Parkinson’s decision to leave Leicestershire after spending his entire career with them is puzzling and raises many questions. The left-arm spinner was one of their most consistent performers over the last few years and played an instrumental role during their T20 Blast quarter-final run this season.
The end of an era?
In conclusion, fans are understandably worried about what this means for Leicester moving forward. Losing three key players at once will undoubtedly have long-term implications on team dynamics. However, with plenty of time remaining before next season begins, it provides management ample opportunity to create new possibilities by building a squad capable of competing across formats.