Viljoen signs Kolpak deal

Proteas fast bowler Hardus Viljoen has joined a growing list of South African players plying their trade in England having signed a three-year Kolpak deal with Derbyshire County Cricket club.
A highly rated fast bowler with a pronounced aggressive streak, Viljoen has played one Test for South Africa against England and joins the likes of Simon Harmer and Stiaan van Zyl who have committed to play County Cricket full-time next season.
Viljoen has found opportunities hard to come by with the rise of Kagiso Rabada and the return to full fitness of stalwarts Vernon Philander and Dale Steyn.
The quick bowler said of the move: “I’m very happy and honoured to be joining Derbyshire.
“The Club has plans to challenge in all forms from day one next summer and I’m excited they have decided I’m the man to help them do this. The changes made both off and on the field are a big factor in my decision that Derbyshire is the right move for me at this stage of my career.
“I’ve had a brief taste of county cricket last season and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Now it will be my main focus and I can’t wait to charge in on that first game in 2017.”
Viljoen has a proven track record as a first class wicket taker and bagged 20 wickets in four matches for Kent at the tail end of the 2016 season.
Derbyshire are thought to be keen on adding more penetration to their attack which took on a toothless look during 2016 as the club failed to register a win in the County Championship.
Director of Cricket at Derbyshire Kim Barnett said: “We’re delighted to secure Hardus to lead our line for the 2017 campaign.
“It was clear last summer that we lacked a consistent threat with the ball, and we feel Hardus fits that bill. He’s a strike bowler who can bowl over 90 miles-an-hour and has experience both internationally and here in England.
“It’s an exciting time for the Club as we regroup with a strategy that leaves the captain and players in charge of their own destiny, and Hardus will play a leading role both on and off the field.”
Viljoen will complete the currently ongoing South African domestic season for the Highveld Lions before jetting off to England and settling in in Derby.
Latest
-
News
Brendon McCullum on the verge of being named England men’s Test coach
The New Zealander could be confirmed in his new role this week.
-
News
Harry Brook eager to press England claims against ‘best ever’ James Anderson
The Yorkshire batter is relishing the chance to take on the Lancashire seamer in this week’s Roses match.
-
News
Ex-NZ captain Brendon McCullum favourite for England Test coach role – reports
The 40-year-old is said to have been interviewed for the position.
-
News
Henry Nicholls doubtful for New Zealand Test opener in England after calf scan
The middle order batter will make the trip to England for the three-Test series but could miss out on the first Test at Lord’s.
-
News
Brendon McCullum emerges as leading contender for England Test coach – reports
The 40-year-old is said to have held talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board and is believed to be interested in the job.
-
News
Former England batter Graham Thorpe ‘seriously ill’ in hospital
The 52-year-old had accepted the job of Afghanistan head coach following his departure from the England set-up after this winter’s Ashes.
-
News
CSA drops charges of gross misconduct and racism against head coach Mark Boucher
Boucher said the allegations “were unjustified and have caused me considerable hurt and anguish”.
-
News
Luke Wright to take up short-term role on New Zealand coaching staff
Wright was part of Paul Collingwood’s T20 World Cup-winning side in 2010 and played 101 white-ball internationals for his country.
-
News
Holland head coach Ryan Campbell discharged from hospital after cardiac arrest
The Dutch Cricket Federation (KNCB) say tests have ruled out a heart attack as the cause of the cardiac arrest.
-
News
Essex draw with Yorkshire as Sir Alastair Cook scores century in both innings
England’s leading Test run-scorer finished unbeaten on 102 at Chelmsford.