Gough returns home

Yorkshire have today announced that Darren Gough has re-joined them as captain following his three years at Essex.

Gough has signed a two-year deal with a clause to leave after a year depending how the 2007 season goes.

‘Dazzler’ was an integral part of Essex’s one-day side especially bringing all his experience and love of the game to Chelmsford and helped Essex win the one-day league in 2005 and 2006. His fountain of knowledge when bowling in tight situations was crucial, just as important was his willingness to share what he has learnt over the years with the counties bowlers.

The Essex bowling attack is certainly in better shape now for Darren Gough’s input.

He has needed to be wrapped in cotton wool when deemed necessary, due to his knee problems, and appeared in 23 out of a possible 48 County Championship matches over his three years, taking 80 wickets at 27.21. With the bat he averaged just under 29, his best knock ironically came against Yorkshire in May 2005, when he made 93. His one-day league record was mightily impressive capturing 38 victims at a cost of 16.44.

Following all the problems Yorkshire have encountered this winter, they have secured the signing of a man sure to put a smile back on the face of the Yorkshire faithful.