Warwickshire County Cricket Club has announced the signing of New Zealand cricketer Will Young. He will replace Tom Latham, who is out with a shoulder injury. Young, 32, is raring to go ahead of his final three County Championship appearances of the season. Warwickshire will be looking to increase their fortunes in the Division One table.
Like New Zealand’s Test team captain Tim Latham, this season has been a disappointment for the experienced Whanganui representative. That means he can’t perform in the first three Championship freedom games due to a broken palm. This injury has prompted Warwickshire’s management to look for an experienced replacement, and Young’s credentials made him a prime candidate.
Young, in terrific form this season, adds further quality and depth to the Warwickshire attacking option. He has now played 88 matches for New Zealand across all formats, a testament to his skill and craft on the big stage. His first-class career has been just as superb, amassing 8,404 runs at an average of 40.21 with 16 centuries.
Young’s background knowledge of English cricket makes him an attractive candidate. He has played for Durham, Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire. This first-hand experience equips him with a unique insight into the conditions that can impact performance in the UK. As a result, this marked insight provides Warwickshire with a crucial competitive advantage. The players are committed to addressing the 27-point deficit between them and league-leading Surrey.
James Thomas, Warwickshire’s director of cricket, has described Young’s talent as “extraordinary”.
“While it’s disappointing to lose Tom for the rest of the season, we know the qualities Will brings – his international pedigree, consistency in English conditions, and experience in the top order,” – James Thomas
Thomas said he felt Young would be a big addition to the team as they continue to try and lock in a strong close to the season.
“We’re confident he’ll make a real impact as we look to finish the campaign strongly and challenge the leading teams,” – James Thomas
With Young stepping into this key role, hopefully he can make a big impact when it really matters in the matches coming up against Warwickshire. His impressive record doing just that says it all. With his in-depth knowledge of English conditions, he might be just what the team needs to solidify their position and claw back up the ladder in the championship.
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