Head coach David Ripley says that Andrew Hall’s century was a good reward for the all-rounder.
The South African’s 113, his 13th first-class hundred, was the outstanding contribution in Northamptonshire’s tally of 355 on day two against Leicestershire and Ripley liked what he witnessed.
He said: “There have been glimpses of that this season and I think he’s been in form and he just batted longer.
“I’m pleased for him as it’s been a tough 12 months for him in many respects. he’s enjoying his cricket, that’s visible, and it was a nice reward for him to get that milestone.
“He scored his runs when the team really needed it and that’s the sign of a good hundred. We were in a bit of trouble and he came up with the goods.
“He’s a top draw competitor and those kind of situations draw that bit extra from him.”
Hall was replaced as captain by Stephen Peters in the winter but rather than let his demotion become an issue, Ripley admitted that it has had the opposite effect.
He added: “He’s been fantastic right through the winter, he’s contributed a hell of a lot and the Barbados tour was good in that he could be one of the lads again.
“He’s added a lot to the tactical stuff we’ve talked about and thrown himself into it.
“He’s making an all-round contribution with his bowling and catching them at slip. The balance of the side looks a lot better when he is in it.”