Loye returns to Northants

Former England international Mal Loye will return to Northamptonshire next year after a seven season spell with Lancashire.

Lancashire batsman heads back to former club

Former England international Mal Loye will return to Northamptonshire next year after a seven season spell with Lancashire. The 37-year-old, who scored 10,603 runs in all competitions at Old Trafford, rejected a new deal at his present club to take up a two-year contract at Wantage Road. Loye joined Lancashire in 2003 following a 12-year stint with Northamptonshire where he first established his career before moving north. "I'm delighted to be back," said the opener, who also played seven one-day internationals for England against Australia in 2007. "I had a feeling that I would return and when I was coming through the gates yesterday, I knew I'd made a positive decision to come back. I can't wait to play for Northants once again." Lancashire cricket director Mike Watkinson hailed Loye's performance during his time at the club. "It became apparent that irrespective of the terms or length of our contract offer to Mal, his decision to move on had been made," said Watkinson. "Mal has made great contributions for Lancashire both on and off the field and I wish him well for the years ahead."