"There's Nothing Like Playing First-Class Cricket" | Green Relishing Latest Leicestershire Loan Spell

They say the grass isn’t always greener. But for all-rounder Ben Green, his latest Leicestershire loan spell has undoubtedly given him a new lease of life.

An ever-present in the side this term, the Somerset loanee is revelling in the opportunity to feature regularly in first-class cricket for the table-topping Foxes.

“It’s massively helping with my development,” Green says. “The more I play, the more I get into a rhythm, and I feel like I bowl and bat better. I’m very grateful for the opportunity that Leicestershire have given me again because there’s nothing like playing first-class cricket.”

Into his fourth loan spell with the Foxes, the path from Somerset to Leicestershire is becoming well-trodden, with Josh Davey and Lewis Goldsworthy also making loan switches to Uptonsteel County Ground in recent seasons.

And for Green in particular, his temporary transfer from one of the country’s capital cider counties is certainly bearing fruit. The 27-year-old has already surpassed his Somerset first-class appearance tally for Leicestershire, and took his maiden five-fer in the Foxes’ nail-biting victory over Gloucestershire last time out. A win that tasted even sweeter for the West Country boy.

“It’s always nice to get one over on the Gloucester boys as a Somerset lad,” he smiles. “I think it was a great result given how nerve-wracking those kinds of chases are, but it was very rewarding.” Green hit the winning runs but credits his teammates for powering up the victory charge. “The way Coxy played in both innings set us up so well. That partnership with Pete dragged the momentum back into our favour and pretty much won us the game.”

Green ended with seven wickets in the match, taking his tally to 12 so far this term, the joint-fifth highest in Division Two. Five of those seven arose during the first innings as an inspired afternoon bowling spell saw the Devon-born all-rounder claim his first five-fer in red-ball cricket.

“I felt like I’ve been bowling well all year. Sometimes, you have your day, and it was my day on Sunday, so I was very pleased,” he reflects. “It was obviously a wicket that offered the bowlers a bit, and had some nice carry, but it was nothing different plan wise to what we’ve been trying to execute in the first three games. We’ve stuck to our areas and been as relentless as we can by controlling the run rate and building subsequent pressure. That creates opportunities.”

Green has proven an integral part of a well-oiled five-strong seam attack, starring alongside the likes of Ian Holland and Logan van Beek to ensure Leicestershire have picked up maximum bowling points in every match so far this term. He credits Holland “ the leading wicket-taker in the division - in particular for his efforts.

“It’s a massive luxury having Dutchy batting in the top six. That means our bowlers don’t have to bowl quite as many overs, which is a huge benefit. We can all come back fresh and do our jobs with more energy. 

“In terms of my role, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed mucking in as and where with bat and ball, doing what the team needs. I think another thing that’s been amazing for us - which I knew last year - is how deep we bat too. We’re so difficult to bowl out and that’s proved itself so far this season.”

Leicestershire’s start to the season, two wins and two high-points draws, sees the Foxes sit top of Division Two heading into the fifth round of matches. Such form is evidence of why Green was so keen to make a return to Uptonsteel County Ground, having featured on six occasions for the Club in 2024.

“We’ve started incredibly well as a team,” he beams. “Everyone has contributed towards the two wins and the strong draws we’ve had, which is really pleasing. I think the dressing room is in a great place.

“Since I came on loan last year, I’ve been welcomed with open arms by the players, coaches, staff and supporters. Everyone’s been incredibly supportive of me. The coaching staff have been amazing in helping me develop and the team are very together. It’s been fantastic to be part of.”

After being given the green light to sign for the opening half of the Rothesay County Championship campaign, the Somerset loanee has three games left to continue his excellent early season form, starting with Northamptonshire at home this weekend. 

“Hopefully we can achieve some more team success in the coming weeks. With Northants next, it’ll hopefully be a case of building on the momentum we’ve got from this opening month. It would be nice to add one or two more wins in this block and set the team up for an exciting second half of the season.”

If the all-rounder can showcase his burgeoning red-ball talents again this weekend to help Leicestershire further flex their promotion credentials, he’ll certainly be leaving other Division Two counties green with envy.

To watch Ben in action for the Foxes against Northamptonshire, secure your seat HERE.