FAST bowler Steven Kirby has struck again with a match-winning performance against the county which released him two years ago.

The 6ft 5in quickie from Ainsworth grabbed match figures of 12 for 72 at the weekend as his new club Yorkshire cemented their lead at the top of the County Championship table with a victory against Leicestershire by an innings and 227 runs.

Kirby had spent four seasons at Grace Road since the age of 18 before he was released, but he made them pay for that decision.

The 23-year-old former Elton High School pupil took 6 for 46 in the first innings, following it up with a breathtaking 6 for 26 in the second as Leicestershire were demolished for just 99.

Kirby's star performance comes on the back of a dream 7 for 50 haul on his Yorkshire debut against Kent last month.

Parents Paul and Alison Kirby, of Broomfield Close, Ainsworth, were both in the Headingley crowd to see their son polish off Leicestershire on Sunday.

Alison said: "We were thrilled to bits. It was extra special as Steven had been home the night before to celebrate my birthday.

"It's been a great start for him, but he's keeping his feet very firmly on the ground."

Kirby took 3 for 34 on the first day of their championship game against Northamptonshire which started on Wednesday and is now top of the averages.