New Zealand international and top-order batsman, Henry Nicholls hopes to impress in his short stint with Derbyshire, starting with the visit of Leicestershire Foxes.
The 26-year-old replaces fast bowler Wahab Riaz, who has joined up with the Barbados Tridents for the Caribbean Premier League after taking 15 wickets for the Falcons.
A powerful left-hander, Nicholls is set to make his first Derbyshire appearance in the Vitality Blast match against the Foxes at The 3aaa County Ground on Saturday; 7pm start.
With international experience in both red and white ball forms, Nicholls has featured in 38 Twenty20 fixtures, scoring 875 runs with a strike rate of 126 and a top-score of 67 not out.
He said: “It’s exciting to be here. The guys have played some good cricket and although the last two games haven’t gone our way, we are keen to return to winning ways on Saturday for the home supporters.
“I’ve heard a lot about the good support here in Derby, especially for the T20 tournament so it’ll be good to play in front of a crowd and hopefully get the runs.”
Joining fellow New Zealand international, Lockie Ferguson, Nicholls hopes to use his time with Derbyshire as an opportunity to make an impact and stake his claim for a spot in the Black Caps’ limited overs side.
He added: “Lockie is a quality bowler, he’s shown that throughout the tournament as did Wahab. I’m now hoping to help out the team in any way I can and I’m looking forward to it.
“I want to play all formats for New Zealand and this is only a short stint, but it’s a nice couple of opportunities to make an impact.”
Vitality Blast is back! Derbyshire Falcons are back at home on Wednesday 8 August against Northants Steelbacks. Purchase your tickets in advance and save from £4. Buy online or call 01332 388 101.
[twentyticket]
