By Glenn Pearson
Kent's new overseas signing Wayne Parnell will add much needed variety to the county’s bowling attack, according to director of cricket Graham Ford.
The 19-year-old left-arm seamer agreed terms with the county on Thursday, initially for a six-week period, although Ford told Kent News that Parnell could possibly stay for the season if not selected by South Africa.
Kent were hopeful the South African international would obtain a visa and arrive in time for today’s Friends Provident Trophy game against Somerset at Taunton, but Wednesday's County Championship game against Essex is more likely.
Parnell has played only 11 first-class games for his native Eastern Province Warriors side taking 27 wickets at an average of 33.25.
In his four one-day-international appearances to date for the Proteas, he has claimed six wickets at an average of 31 with a strike-rate of a wicket every 36 deliveries.
His last international appearance was on April 13, when he played against Australia at his home ground in Port Elizabeth.
Ford said the fast bowler will be a good replacement for Stuart Clark who was re-called by Australia.
“Wayne is a young cricketer that has come through in South Africa, bowls left arm and swings it nicely at a reasonable pace.
“He captained South African under-19s and showed he has a mature head on his shoulders, as well as a fantastic work ethic. He was seen as an all-rounder in earlier days but has now come through as a frontline bowler with the national side. Being a left arm seamer, he will certainly give us a bit of variety.”
Although Parnell’s signing is for an initial six weeks – the same length of time afforded to Clark – Kent will be monitoring his involvement with South Africa to see if the move could be extended to the end of the season.
Ford said: “He is pretty certain to be in South Africa’s side for the World Twenty20, but if he does not make that, then there is a chance he could stay with us longer.”
POSTED: 26/04/2009 11:00:00
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