Worcestershire calls up Russell

WORCESTERSHIRE, England, CMC-West Indian all-rounder Andre Russell will play for Worcestershire County Club in the Friends Life t20 tournament scheduled to start next month.

Russell, fresh from representing Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has been called up to replace Jacob Oram, the Club’s overseas signing for the 2013.

Andre Russell
Andre Russell

The 34-year-old Oram will be returning to New Zealand to undergo a hernia operation and will not feature for Worcestershire this summer.

“Having previously experienced some time at Worcestershire practicing with the squad I am very much looking forward to playing in their t20 competition,” said the Jamaican cricketer

“I have always wanted to play County cricket and I am excited about being involved in such a professional and friendly environment.”

Russell, 25, has featured in 57 t20 matches, with a Strike Rate of 148.87.

In January, Russell’s 4-22 landed him Man of the Match when Jamaica beat Guyana by five wickets in the Caribbean t20.

“Losing Jacob Oram to an injury is naturally a blow but this has been softened by the signing of Andre Russell who is a high class West Indian International all-rounder,” said Director of Cricket, Steve Rhodes.

“He has ability with the bat, ball and in the field and if he connects with the middle of his bat there are few grounds big enough! He will add firepower and excitement to our Friends Life t20 campaign.”

The Friends Life t20, involving 18 counties, runs from June 26 to August 17.