Picture Credit: BCCI
Indian all-rounder Krunal Pandya will participate in country cricket for the first time after signing a contract with Warwickshire for the Royal London Cup. The 31-year-old will compete in the domestic 50-over competition beginning on August 2 alongside Washington Sundar (Lancashire) and Cheteshwar Pujara (Sussex). Notably, the above mentioned players are not included in India's white-ball series against England this month.
Notably, the launch of The Hundred has primarily affected the reputation of the 50-over competition and the team is due to lose at least 10 players to the Hundred, with further spots up for grabs at next week's domestic wildcard draft. However, the inclusion of active Indian players will reportedly improve its stature.
Warwickshire's Director of cricket, Paul Farbrace, hailed the Indian spin all-rounder and stated that the Indian all-rounder's rich experience will help the youngsters in the team to learn crucial aspects of the game.
"Krunal Pandya will bring a wealth of international experience. He has been an impactful player for whichever team he plays. We are confident that Krunal is also excited to join our team and help our players to develop important skills," he said.
Responding to the development, the Indian cricketer shared the excitement of his new association as he claimed Warwickshire 'a historic club.' Taking to Twitter, Krunal Pandya posted his video and said that he is extremely excited to get the opportunity to play county cricket.
"Edgbaston is a special place to play cricket and I can’t wait to call it my home. I hope I can play my part in a successful 50-over campaign with the Club and I am looking forward to meeting my teammates," he said.
The Lucknow Super Giants all-rounder also expressed his gratitude to the BCCI for the opportunity. Warwickshire will play eight group-stage matches, with four at home at Edgbaston, in this summer’s Royal London Cup competition, starting from 2 August.