Worcestershire County Cricket Club are delighted to announce the signing of talented New Zealand cricketer Nathan Smith as an overseas player for the 2024 season. The 25-year-old fast-bowling all-rounder brings a wealth of experience and skill to New Road, bolstering Worcestershire’s squad across all formats.
Smith, who has already impressed in domestic cricket for Otago Volts and Wellington Firebirds, is eager to make his mark in England.
He has consistently impressed in New Zealand’s domestic circuit, claiming five-wicket hauls in both T20 and first-class formats. His all-round abilities were further showcased when he was named in the New Zealand A squad for practice matches against the touring India team in 2020.
To date Smith has claimed 105 first class wickets at an impressive average of 27 and has recently passed the half century mark of wickets in T20 cricket. With the bat, he is averaging a healthy 26, with one first class century, and a career strike rate of 122 in T20 cricket.
Smith will be available for all formats throughout the 2024 season.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Worcestershire for the 2024 season,” Smith expressed.
“The club’s rich history and commitment to developing talent make it an ideal environment for me to grow as a cricketer.
“I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Club from other Kiwis who have played at New Road recently, and I can’t wait to join up with the rest of the squad and hit the ground running.”
Head coach of Worcestershire, Alan Richardson, is confident that Smith will be a key asset to the team. “Nathan is a great character, and is a fantastic addition to our squad,” Richardson stated.
“We have been monitoring him for some time, and his pace and ability to swing the ball will provide us with a significant boost in our bowling department.
“He’s a genuine wicket-taker, can also contribute valuable runs down the order, and is an outstanding fielder, making him a real all-round threat.
“We believe he’ll be a key player in our pursuit of success this season.”
🎞️ 𝘏𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘭 🎞️
— Worcestershire CCC (@WorcsCCC) January 4, 2024
Check out the best of new signing @_nathansmith10_ 🔥 pic.twitter.com/DbkGb9h5Yc