LONDON, Leading West Indies seamer Kemar Roach has extended his love affair with English County Surrey after signing a new deal with the London club for a third straight season.
The 34-year-old will play six matches at the start of the new campaign, which bowls off April 6, his first game being a trip away to Lancashire at Old Trafford.
Last season, Roach was a crucial part of the title-winning unit, grabbing 25 wickets from seven matches despite having his stint disrupted by injury.
“I enjoy playing for Surrey, and winning the title last year was incredible to be a part of,” he said in a statement.
“It’s such a talented and exciting group of players, and I can’t wait to get back out on the pitch representing the Club.”
Roach lies sixth on the West Indies’ all-time list of wicket-takers in Tests, having taken 253 wickets from 74 Tests at an average of 27.
He needs a further seven wickets to overhaul legendary speedster Joel Garner after overtaking the likes of Sir Garry Sobers (235) and Michael Holding (249) over the last 12 months.
Surrey head coach Gareth Batty described Roach as a critical part of the club’s setup, pointing to his experience as key.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming Kemar back to Surrey. He brings great ability and work ethic, and his experience plays an important role in the dressing room,” Batty said.
“Kemar has already shown what he can do in his time at the Club so far, and we’re excited to have him joining us again this year.”
Roach is closing in on 500 first-class wickets on 480 and has already claimed 47 at an average of 23 over his time at Surrey.
He is expected to leave the Caribbean shortly with the West Indies for the two-Test tour of Zimbabwe from February 4-16.
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