Sean Abbott has ended his stint at Surrey early after being withdrawn by Cricket Australia to manage workloads ahead of any future selection for the national team. Sean will miss the match in the LV=Insurance County Championship against Somerset.
Abbott has played an important role this season with both the white and the red ball. In First-Class cricket, Abbott has taken 37 wickets at an average of 24.8, with a five wicket-haul in the first game of the season against Lancashire at Old Trafford. He has also scored 456 runs at an average of just over 45 including some crucial innings in wins against Hampshire and Kent at The Kia Oval.
The Australian struck a remarkable century in the Vitality Blast against Kent. His three figures coming from just 34 deliveries – the joint fastest century of all-time in the competition. Abbott also delivered with the ball, with brilliant performances in the quarter-final against Lancashire – taking 1-22 – and in the semi-final against Somerset – taking 4-23.
Gareth Batty, Head Coach at Surrey Cricket, said “Sean’s had an incredible impact in this spell at the Club. He’s been a real leader on and off the pitch and has shown his outstanding skillset with both the white and the red ball. He’s been magnificent around the group and has gone out of his way to help individuals and to make the team better.
“The way he bought into the mentality and the values of the side has been first class. He has made crucial contributions in every game and has delivered everything that could be asked of an overseas player at the Club. I’d like to thank Sean for his commitment and his hard work.”
Sean Abbott said “My time here at Surrey has been incredibly special, it’s been an honour to pull on the Three Feathers and represent such an unbelievable Club. Thanks to Alec and Gareth for putting their trust in me and bringing me back to play at The Kia Oval, as well as to Rory, CJ and the lads in the dressing room – it’s been amazing to be part of the side.
I’ve made some incredible memories this season and I will be watching as Surrey keep up the push for another title in September.”
