Benjamin David Cotton is an English cricket player who is known for his skills as a seam bowler. Born and raised in England, Cotton began his professional cricket career with Derbyshire in 2014. Despite facing challenges and being released from the squad in 2018, Cotton has shown immense potential and has recently signed a new one-year deal with Northamptonshire for the 2019 season.
Cotton’s initial stint with Derbyshire showed great promise, as he featured in 20 first-class matches and took an impressive 37 wickets. His debut season was particularly noteworthy, as he claimed the wickets of renowned players like Jos Buttler, Shikhar Dhawan, and Virat Kohli. These performances highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and capture valuable scalps.
In addition to his accomplishments in first-class cricket, Cotton also made appearances in 29 one-day matches and 18 T20 games for Derbyshire. Although his performances in limited-overs cricket may not have matched the heights of his first-class success, he consistently made valuable contributions to the team. His ability to adapt to different formats of the game speaks volumes about his versatility as a player.
Despite his early success, Cotton faced a setback when he was released from Derbyshire ahead of the 2018 season. The decision came as part of a restructuring effort within the team, aimed at nurturing younger players and raising the county’s expectations. However, Cotton did not let this setback deter him and used it as motivation to prove his worth.
During the 2018 season, Cotton had the opportunity to showcase his skills in three Championship matches while playing for Northamptonshire. In one of these matches, he achieved his career-best figures of 5-48 in a convincing win against Sussex. This remarkable performance not only demonstrated his ability to take crucial wickets but also solidified his position in the team.
Cotton’s impressive performances earned him a new contract with Northamptonshire for the 2019 season. The team management recognized his potential and decided to invest in his development as a player. With this renewed opportunity, Cotton is determined to make a significant impact and establish himself as a consistent performer.
Off the field, Cotton maintains a strong work ethic and is known for his dedication to the game. He consistently strives to improve his skills and often seeks guidance from experienced players and coaches. His commitment to self-improvement is a testament to his passion for cricket and his desire to succeed at the highest level.
As he continues his cricket journey with Northamptonshire, Cotton aims to further enhance his reputation as a skillful seam bowler. With his natural talent, hard work, and renewed opportunity, he has the potential to become a key asset for his team and a respected figure in English cricket.