Gidman stays at Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire's captain Alex Gidman has agreed a new contract extension that will take him through to the end of the 2013 season.

Gidman's current deal was due to expire at the end of the summer, but the former England A batsman, 29, is delighted to secure his future at Bristol.

"I am really pleased to have agreed a new contract with Gloucestershire," he said. "I see this as one of the most exciting times of my career both personally and for the club.

"I have been lucky enough to play with some fantastic cricketers over the years and have won two trophies, now it is my turn to try and lead a younger team to similar success. The club is moving forward and I want to support the direction both on and off the pitch."

Announcing the news on the GCCC website, Gloucestershire Chief Executive Tom Richardson said: "We are delighted that Alex has signed a new contract. He has been a key player for us over a number of years and we see him as an important part of the team both now and in the future.

"We are committed to creating a vibrant new-look team capable of challenging in all competitions and Alex will be integral to guiding the new team to future success."