Pyrah awarded a Benefit Year with Yorkshire

Ossett cricketer Richard Pyrah has been awarded a Benefit Year in 2015 with newly crowned county champions Yorkshire CCC.
Richard Pyrah in bowling action.Richard Pyrah in bowling action.
Richard Pyrah in bowling action.

The 31-year-old all-rounder, a former pupil at Ossett High School, has risen through the county club’s academy system to become one of Yorkshire’s most consistent performers in senior cricket, particularly being a key member of the one-day and T20 side.

“I think, having come through the Yorkshire system and playing for over 13 years like I have, it’s a very, very proud moment,” said Pyrah.

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“To play for Yorkshire was a proud moment, but to be here and be recognised for the work I’ve done, it makes me and my family very proud. It’s a massive thing.

“I’ve probably put into the club in different ways to some of the other names that have had benefits, but I have given to the club behind the scenes when not playing. I’m not going to take it for granted. It’s a massive thing, and hopefully it will help me and my family, especially when I finish.”

The Dewsbury-born right-hander made his List A debut for Yorkshire in 2001. Over the last 13 years, Pyrah has played 114 List A matches and has taken 140 wickets at a respectable average of just over 25.

In Championship cricket he will be remembered for the catch that secured Yorkshire the coveted LV= County Championship crown last week against Nottinghamshire. His catch, at point, to dismiss James Taylor was the moment that Yorkshire won the Championship.

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“I’m very, very lucky that we’ve won the County Championship for my benefit year,” added Pyrah, who averages over 29 with the bat in First-Class cricket.

“It’s unbelievable. And to take the winning catch, to take that into it, you couldn’t have written it.

“It will be a busy year. I’ll have to get my hands dirty and get a good committee together, I think that’s key. We’ve already spoken about ways of incorporating it (catch - things like logos I guess), but it hasn’t really sunk in yet.”

Yorkshire County Cricket Club, Chief Executive, Mark Arthur, added: “We are delighted to award Richard a Benefit Year for next season as he is a player that has had a tremendous career at Yorkshire.

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“He has always shown his admiration for Yorkshire and is a role model for supporters of the club at all ages. He is a terrific clubman and has gained ultimate respect from his fellow players and supporters of the club.

“I’m sure I can say on behalf of the club, Members and supporters that we wish Richard the best of luck for his Benefit Year in 2015.”

For more information and if you have an interest in being involved, please contact Simon Pixsley via email – [email protected]