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England Fast bowler Liam Plunkett is leaving Surrey at the end of the season to play Major League Cricket in the USA. Plunkett, who played a crucial role in England’s ODI World Cup win two years ago, has decided to quit English cricket to 'help grow the sport in the United States'. However, Plunkett will have to serve a three-year residency period before becoming eligible to represent the USA team.
The 36-year-old all-rounder said in a statement on Surrey Cricket Club’s website, “Moving onto the next phase of my career, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to join Major League Cricket and focus my attention on helping to grow the sport in the United States.”
“I’ve enjoyed a fantastic career with England, and after retiring from international cricket, I am delighted to be able to help build the sport in America in both playing and coaching capacities.”
"In addition, I am looking forward to supporting the team closest to our home in the US by being able to play for the Philadelphians in Minor League Cricket," he added.
Plunkett won 89 one-day international caps for England, the last of which came in the World Cup final. He took three wickets in the final, including that of New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson. Plunkett, whose wife is American, had previously expressed interest in playing for the United States at some stage in the future. Plunkett will start the new phase of his career in season two of the Minor League Cricket Championship (MiLC).