Leicestershire secure services of Abbas again for 2019

By Bradley West

Leicestershire have announced that Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas will return to the county for a second stint in 2019.

The 28-year-old will once again be the Foxes frontline overseas player and he will be available to play in both the County Championship and the Royal London One-Day up after impressing during his spell with the side this summer.

The Pakistan international took 50 wickets at an average of 17.72 as his control with the ball saw him earn his county cap, awarded to him by head coach Paul Nixon.

Abbas has also hugely impressed in the international arena, taking 42 wickets at an average of 17.69 in his eight Test matches so far.

On the news, Abbas said: ““I have really enjoyed my time at Leicestershire County Cricket Club. Everybody has made me and my family feel very welcome. I have relished the chance to be a senior bowler, and I am looking forward to coming back next year.”

Nixon added: “Mo has been an absolute class act this year. His bowling has been outstanding, constantly asking the batsmen questions by beating the edge on both sides. He is world-class; a humble man who is a brilliant role model.

“Even when Mo was away taking wickets for Pakistan earlier this year, he kept in touch and wished us well before matches. He has played a huge role in our success this season. We were absolutely delighted to award Mo with his county cap recently, and it is great that he will be returning next season.”