Surrey County Cricket Club can today announce the signing of middle order batsman Vikram Solanki on a two year deal.
Solanki, 36, joins the club from Worcestershire where he has enjoyed a reputation as one of the finest batsmen on the county circuit – as well as an experienced leader, having captained the county from 2005 until 2010. He is also a veteran of the International stage, playing 51 One Day Internationals and three T20 Internationals for England.
The capture of Solanki – who had been given permission to speak to other counties by Worcestershire – will give Surrey another batting option and add another experienced professional to the club’s batting unit. He will also provide crucial experience and leadership throughout the club, both on and off the field.
Throughout a first-class career that began in 1995, Solanki has struck 31 centuries at an average of 36.02. He also has fifteen centuries in List A cricket and one Twenty20 ton. He scored his first-class career best of 270 as recently as 2008.
Surrey Team Director Chris Adams said: “Signing a player of the class and experience of Vikram Solanki is a huge boost for the club, giving our young batsmen a chance to learn from one of the most professional and widely respected players in the country. I am delighted that he has chosen to join Surrey and very much look forward to working with him in coming years.”
Executive Director Alec Stewart added: “Credit should first and foremost be given to the Surrey management team in the swift and decisive manner in securing the signing of Vikram Solanki who was being chased by a number of other counties.
“Vikram will add much experience, professionalism and a proven run scoring record to the batting line up and is a welcome addition to the squad which has unfortunately and sadly been severely hampered by recent events.”
Vikram Solanki concluded: “I’m very excited at the prospect of representing Surrey CCC from 2013 onwards. The Kia Oval has always been a special place for me and I’m well aware of the rich history and heritage of the club, players and the ground. I’ll be very focused on making the best contribution I can on and off the field and I would like to thank Surrey for giving me such a good opportunity to look forward to.”
Chris Adams spoke to Surrey TV about the signing of Vikram Solanki. To hear his thoughts watch the video below
Surrey sign Solanki from Surrey Cricket on Vimeo.
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