Michael Di Venuto Photo © CricInfo

After a disappointing season, Derbyshire have today decided not to offer 2002 playing contracts to Trevor Smith and Stephen Titchard, whilst Alex Edwards and Zubair Khan will also be released.

Meanwhile, sadly, after a frustrating season with his fitness, Richard Illingworth has decided to retire from the First Class game, following a distinguished career with Worcestershire CCC and England. All at the Club wish Richard well.

On a positive note, overseas star Michael Di Venuto is to be retained for 2002 after a solid season of more than 1,000 First Class runs. He is determined to help the Club achieve a reversal of fortune and is viewed by Derbyshire as an important part of a long term, more successful future. He will take on the Vice-captaincy next season, taking over the role from Tim Munton; in what was agreed by all to be a naturally progressive move for the coming years. The Club would wish to thank Tim for his efforts over the last two years, when his experience has proved invaluable to the younger members of the squad.

Christopher Bassano has signed a two-year contract and Tom Lungley a one-year contract, whilst Kevin Dean, Stephen Stubbings, Luke Sutton, Rawait Khan and Lian Wharton have all been offered new or extended terms. Steven Selwood will once again be with the squad in 2002, after the completion of his university studies. Paul Aldred, Rob Bailey, Mathew Dowman, Karl Krikken, Tim Munton and James Pyemont all remain on existing contracts until the end of season 2002.

In the first move to strengthen the squad, Derbyshire have completed the signing of exciting Free State batsman Andrew Gait (23), who qualifies through his father's British nationality to play in English County Cricket. A prolific run scorer in South African state and representative cricket, Andrew is an excellent fielder and a quality acquisition for the Club.

© Derbyshire CCC