Pattinson signs new Notts deal
Darren Pattinson signs new three-year contract at Nottinghamshire
Monday, 05, Jan 2009 05:02
Fast bowler Darren Pattinson has signed a new three-year contract at Nottinghamshire until the end of the 2011 season.
Pattinson, 29, took 47 wickets in his first ever County Championship season and was rewarded for his form with a surprise call-up to the England squad for the second Test against South Africa at Headingley last summer.
And Nottinghamshire director of cricket Mick Newell admitted the retention of players like Pattinson was an important part of the county's preparation for the 2009 summer.
"It goes without saying that we want to retain a core of players on long-term contracts and Darren is deserving of a new deal after his performances last season," Newell said.
"We have a very strong bowling attack and Darren will be fitter and stronger in 2009 and able to make another significant contribution to the club."
Pattinson went to Australia during the winter to play in the cricket season down under for regional side Victoria Bushrangers, although he did not see a great deal of playing time.
However, Newell believes a rest for the paceman would have been just as useful for him as continuing to rack up first-class experience.
"He hasn't played much cricket in Australia during our winter which is good for us because he will report back fresh and ready to pick up where he left off," the Notts chief added.