Category: Cricket

Luke Fletcher, the veteran seam bowler who has been a mainstay of Nottinghamshire’s bowling attack for 17 seasons, will bid farewell to Trent Bridge at the end of the 2024 campaign.

Fletcher, who turns 36 on Wednesday, has been a key figure in Nottinghamshire’s success over the years, playing a pivotal role in six title-winning campaigns, including the County Championship triumph in 2010 and two T20 Blast titles in 2017 and 2020.

The local lad, who made his Nottinghamshire debut in 2008, has taken 442 first-class wickets, 93 List A wickets, and 108 T20 wickets during his illustrious career.

Fletcher’s finest year came in 2021 when he was named PCA County Championship Player of the Year after taking 66 wickets at an average of 14.9. That came four years after a career-threatening injury in 2017 when he was struck on the head by a Sam Hain drive in a T20 clash against Birmingham Bears.

“For a local lad to represent this club is an honor, and I never could have expected the career I’ve had,” Fletcher said. “My overwhelming feeling now is how grateful I am for all the years I’ve spent with Notts and the memories I have made along the way.”

“A place is only as good as the people within it, and I’ve had the pleasure of sharing a dressing room with so many great people and creating relationships that I will cherish forever.”

“But it’s also everyone around the club – from the ticket office to the chefs, community teams, ground staff, dressing room attendants, and so many more. I’ve been here for such a long time, and it has all meant a great deal to me.”

“Whilst I am sad that my time at the club is done, I couldn’t be happier with everything I have achieved. Trent Bridge feels like home, it always has done, and it always will do.”

Mick Newell, Nottinghamshire’s director of cricket, paid tribute to Fletcher’s contribution to the club.

“Luke is a hugely popular character, and with good reason,” Newell said. “He has given his heart and soul to this club, forged so many friendships, and played with a smile on his face.”

“It says a great deal that Stuart Broad – who played with some of the greatest players of his generation – deems Fletch one of ‘the best teammates you could ever have’.”

“It means so much to him to have represented his home county for nearly two decades, and that loyalty has been reciprocated by members and supporters who show him great affection.”

“His stats and success deserve mention too – he has worked tremendously hard at his craft to be the best he can be, and that has paid dividends.”

“We wish him all the best wherever he goes and whatever he does – he will always get a warm welcome and special reception at Trent Bridge.”