Liam Plunkett to play in United States; Surrey bowler was part of England's World Cup-winning line-up in 2019, taking three wickets in the final against New Zealand, and won 13 Test caps
Tuesday 31 August 2021 15:37, UK
England's World Cup winner Liam Plunkett will leave Surrey at the end of the season to play cricket in the United States.
The pace bowler, in his third year at The Oval after earlier spells with Durham and Yorkshire, will play for an as-yet undecided franchise in a new T20 competition called Major League Cricket, while also turning out for Minor League side The Philadelphians.
The highlight of a distinguished international career which featured 13 Test appearances and 111 caps across the limited-overs formats was 2019's World Cup success: Plunkett took three wickets in the final against New Zealand.
"I would like to thank everyone at Surrey for the support and backing I have received over the last three years," said the 36-year-old, who has an American wife. "It is an incredible club, and it was an honour to have represented them.
"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."
Surrey director of cricket Alec Stewart said: "On behalf of everyone at the club, we wish Liam the very best with his new challenge in America. Whenever he is in London, he will always be welcomed back to visit the Kia Oval."
