Gold Fox | Holland Awarded Prestigious County Cap

Ian Holland has received his second honour of the week after being awarded his prestigious Gold Fox cap on Monday.

Named Leicestershire captain for September’s promotion run-in over the weekend, the all-rounder was presented with his county cap by Club Chair John Thorpe in the presence of his teammates, coaches and wife Chloe ahead of day one’s Championship contest against Gloucestershire.

It was the third instalment of a special capping ceremony, with Pakistan star Shan Masood and new arrival Stephen Eskinazi also receiving their caps upon first-class debut for the Club.

Holland’s headwear, however, was adorned with a gold fox, awarded in honour of his outstanding contributions to Leicestershire since his arrival last May.

The 34-year-old has taken 66 wickets and scored 994 runs across formats since his switch from Hampshire, with his 31 first-class poles at 17.32 this summer firing the Foxes to the verge of Division One.

Upon receiving his Gold Fox, Holland said: “It’s a huge honour to be capped as a Golden Fox. I’m really happy with the move I’ve made in the past 12 months, and it’s always nice to have that kind of recognition from the Club.

“I wasn’t expecting it, to be honest. My wife kept it a secret, but as soon as I saw her come out to the huddle, I knew something was happening.

“I’m super grateful for the opportunity Leicestershire has given me. It’s a close-knit club, which is a real strength of ours, and it goes a long way when you’re really enjoying your cricket. I’m loving every second here.”

The Wisconsin-born cricketer becomes the second Leicestershire player to be capped by the Club this year, following Josh Hull’s recognition in May.