Notts clear Patel for South Africa T20

By Dave Bracegirdle

Samit Patel has signed up to play for Chevrolet Warriors in South Africa’s forthcoming domestic Twenty20 tournament. The England all-rounder is currently in New Zealand but will fly to join up with the Port Elizabeth-based side on February 25, at the conclusion of this month’s ODI series.

“I'm very excited to be joining the Chevrolet Warriors,” said Patel. “I've heard fantastic things about the team and the area. The Warriors have a history of doing well in this format and I hope I can add something extra and make this year a winning season. I want to thank Nottinghamshire for releasing me to play and after speaking to the staff at the Warriors I really can't wait to start."

Warriors coach Piet Botha said: “We are delighted that Samit will be joining the Warriors. His experience at the highest level will be of great benefit to our squad both on and off the field.”

Patel, 28, was barred by his county from putting himself forward for this year’s Indian Premier League, along with county team-mates Alex Hales and Michael Lumb, but Notts have no issues with him joining the Warriors.

“There’s no comparison,” said Mick Newell, the Notts director of cricket, “We actively encourage our players to take part in tournaments around the world, providing they don’t clash with the English season.

“He will miss our pre-season tour of Barbados but ideally I want to get players involved there who have been cooped up indoors for five months, rather than those that have been playing regularly. Samit has had more than enough cricket this winter.”

Should the Warriors make it through to the final of South Africa's t20 tournament, Patel would be engaged until April 7 but would still be back in time to play in the opening LV= County Championship fixture against Middlesex, which begins at Trent Bridge on April 10.





Date: 14/02/2013 18:01:39 by Dave Bracegirdle
In: Today | Nottinghamshire | England |