Powell awarded benefit by Warwickshire

Warwickshire's former captain, Michael Powell, has been awarded a benefit year for the 2008 season.

Powell, 32, made his county debut in 1996 and was capped three years later. In 2001, he was appointed club captain and led his team to victory in the 2002 Benson & Hedges Cup at Lord's.

In his career to date, Powell has scored 7,022 first-class runs at 32.06, with 12 centuries including a best of 236 against Oxford University in 2001. "I would like to thank the club for this very humbling reward for my services to the Bears," said Powell.

"A benefit year is a wonderful opportunity for me and one that I am immensely grateful for. I would also like to thank all the Warwickshire members that have supported me throughout my career and have helped make this possible."

Warwickshire's chief executive, Colin Povey, said: "Michael has been a fantastic and loyal servant to the Bears and we wish him all the best in his benefit season."