Derbyshire has signed fast bowler Boyd Rankin for the remainder of this summer’s Vitality Blast.
The paceman, who is centrally-contracted by Ireland and currently playing Inter-Provincial first-class cricket for the North West Warriors, will link up with the Falcons immediately and will be available for today’s match against Northants Steelbacks.
Rankin won the Twenty20 competition in 2014, claiming 14 wickets at an average of 20 to help Warwickshire claim the title.
The bowler has taken 89 wickets in 77 Twenty20 matches throughout his career at an average of 21.39, with career best figures of 4-9.
Over a third of those matches came in international cricket, which saw Rankin claim 39 wickets at 22.38, with his best T20I figures of 3-16 coming for Ireland against UAE in 2017.
Standing at 6’8”, Rankin joins a pace attack already containing Ravi Rampaul and Logan van Beek, both of whom have also played cricket at international level.
Head of Cricket, Dave Houghton said: “We have been looking for an additional fast bowler to strengthen our current squad for the T20.”
“Boyd has international experience and will fit in well with the bowlers that we already have. With the pace and bounce that he generates, he will bring a new dimension and give us that bit extra.
“We would like to thank Cricket Ireland for their positive response and support in helping to make this happen.”
Rankin added: “I’m pleased to have joined Derbyshire for the Vitality Blast. I’ve always enjoyed T20, it’s such an exciting format and I can’t wait to get going.
“I am very familiar with the club having played here previously and I know that the supporters are right behind the players, so hopefully we can put in some good performances and get wins on the board.”
Vitality Blast is back! Derbyshire host a hat-trick of Twenty20 matches at The Pattonair County Ground in August. Buy in advance to save. Call 01332 388 101 or buy online.
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