LEICESTERSHIRE, UK — In a significant move to solidify their squad ahead of their highly anticipated return to Division One of the County Championship, Leicestershire Foxes have secured the services of explosive batter Sol Budinger on a new two-year contract. The deal, announced at the Uptonsteel County Ground, will see the powerful left-hander remain with the club until at least the end of the 2026 season.
The 25-year-old Budinger, who joined Leicestershire from Nottinghamshire ahead of the 2022 season, has become a pivotal figure in the Foxes' white-ball setup and a increasingly influential player in the red-ball format. His commitment is a major statement of intent from the club, signalling their determination not just to survive, but to compete aggressively in the top tier of English domestic cricket after securing promotion in dramatic fashion last season.
A Key Piece of the Promotion Puzzle
Budinger's decision to extend his stay at Grace Road is a testament to the positive environment and clear vision being cultivated by Director of Cricket Claude Henderson and Head Coach Alfonso Thomas. His contributions were instrumental in the club's successful 2023 campaign, which ended a long exile from the top flight. His aggressive batting at the top of the order provided the team with blistering starts that often put opposition attacks on the back foot from the outset.
Reflecting on his new deal, Budinger expressed his excitement for the challenges ahead. "I’m absolutely delighted to have signed a new deal. It’s a really exciting time for the club, getting back into Division One, and I’m looking forward to being a part of that," he said. "The atmosphere around the place is fantastic. We’ve got a great group of lads and a coaching staff that believes in us, and that was a huge factor in wanting to stay."
His explosive style was perfectly encapsulated in a remarkable innings against Yorkshire at Grace Road last season, where he bludgeoned a 43-ball century in the County Championship, equalling the record for the fastest hundred in the club's history—a record he now shares with the great David Gower.
More Than Just a Blaster
While often lauded for his destructive power in the Vitality Blast, where he has been a fan favourite, Budinger has been diligently working to refine his first-class game. The new contract is a reward for that development and a show of faith in his ability to translate his white-ball prowess into consistent red-ball success against the heightened quality of Division One bowling attacks.
Director of Cricket Claude Henderson was effusive in his praise, highlighting Budinger's value to the squad. "Sol is an incredibly talented cricketer who has grown immensely as a player and a person during his time with us. He brings a unique energy and fearlessness to our batting lineup that can change the complexion of a game in a single session."
Henderson also pointed to Budinger's improving all-round contributions. "People see the big sixes, but he’s worked incredibly hard on his four-day cricket and his bowling. He is a genuine three-format player for us, and at 25, his best years are absolutely ahead of him. Securing his future was a priority for us."
Head Coach Alfonso Thomas echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the cultural fit. "Sol embodies the positive and attacking brand of cricket we want to play here at Leicestershire. He’s a popular member of the dressing room and his commitment is a massive boost for everyone associated with the club."
Looking Ahead to Division One
The challenge of Division One cricket is a formidable one, pitting Leicestershire against county powerhouses like Surrey, Essex, and Hampshire. Retaining a match-winner like Budinger is a crucial step in building a squad capable of not only competing but thriving. His ability to take the game away from opponents will be a key asset as the Foxes look to establish themselves.
The club's strategy appears to be focused on stability and rewarding performance. In recent months, Leicestershire have also secured the long-term futures of other key players, building a core group that has grown together. This core includes:
• Wicketkeeper-batter Ben Cox
• Seam bowler Scott Currie
• All-rounder Tom Scriven
Budinger acknowledged the step up in quality that awaits but backed his team to rise to the occasion. "It’s going to be a tough test, there’s no doubt about that. The bowling attacks in Division One are world-class. But we’ve earned the right to be there, and we’re not going to just make up the numbers. We play a positive brand of cricket, and we believe that can be successful against anyone."
A Bright Future in All Formats
Beyond the County Championship, Budinger remains a central figure in Leicestershire's T20 ambitions. His partnership at the top of the order with players like Nick Welch and Rishi Patel has the potential to be one of the most devastating in the country. His athleticism in the field and developing off-spin bowling add further dimensions to his game, making him a valuable asset in the strategic battles of the shorter formats.
For the fans at Grace Road, the re-signing is a cause for optimism. Budinger's aggressive approach and palpable passion on the field have made him a standout performer. The sight of him clearing the ropes with effortless power has become a familiar and thrilling spectacle, one they can now look forward to for at least two more seasons as their team embarks on its new journey in Division One.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Sol Budinger and his Leicestershire teammates. With his future secured, the powerful batter can focus entirely on fulfilling the immense potential he has shown, aiming to make his mark on the biggest stage in county cricket and help usher in a new, successful era for the Foxes.