India fast bowler Navdeep Saini has been signed by Kent Cricket for three County Championship games followed by five Royal London Cup matches (50-over format). However, Saini's participation for Kent will depend on his visa and regulatory approval.
Saini will become the second Indian Test cricketer to represent Kent after Rahul Dravid aka 'The Wall'.
“It’s a great opportunity to play county cricket and I’m looking forward to giving my all for Kent,” the 29-year-old said.
Kent’s Director of Cricket, Paul Downton, is delighted to have the fast bowler’s services as he said: “In a year when it’s been difficult to take wickets, we’re excited to have the opportunity to add a fast bowler of Navdeep’s quality to our squad.’’
Saini has represented India in two Tests, eight ODIs and 11 T20Is from which he has taken 4, 6 and 13 wickets respectively.
Recently, the Haryana-born pacer was seen bowling in the warm-up match before the rescheduled Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham. In the Leicestershire vs Indians clash, Saini bagged three wickets for 55 runs.
Saini made his Test debut against Australia at Sydney in the historic Test series after multiple players were ruled out due to injury. Saini bagged four wickets on debut including the big wicket of Marnus Labuschagne in the second innings.
In the ODIs, he has struggled for wickets and has an average of 80.16. His economy rate of 6.87 runs per over is on the higher side as well.
Apart from Saini, Krunal Pandya will be seen playing in the Royal London Cup as well. The spin all-rounder will be playing Warwickshire. Saini and Pandya will not be up against each other in league stages.
Saini will make his Royal London debut on August 2 against Worcestershire.
