Oram joins Worcestershire for T20

By Paul Bolton, County News Correspondent

Worcestershire have signed New Zealand all-rounder Jacob Oram as their second overseas player for this season’s Friends Life t20 campaign.

The 34-year-old retired from Test cricket in 2009 because of injury problems but he continued to represent New Zealand in Twenty20 and one day international cricket until last autumn.

He has now become a Twenty20 specialist playing his trade around the globe in domestic competitions in New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Oram’s short stint with Worcestershire will be the first time that he has played county cricket and he will arrive in England from the IPL, where he plays for Mumbai Indians.

"The opportunity to play for Worcestershire in this season's Friends Life t20 competition was something I could not turn down. While I have never played county cricket, it has always been a goal of mine so I am very excited at the prospect of representing the club,” said Oram.

"Another attraction to Worcestershire was the chance to play at the picturesque New Road cricket ground. I have played a few games there for New Zealand (2004 and 2008), as well as the New Zealand Youth Team (1996). It's a beautiful ground and one that I will be privileged to call home, at least for a month."

Oram has made 33 Test, 160 one day international and 36 Twenty20 international appearances. “I have admired Jacob's all-round qualities for some time now and his t20 experience, which he has gained from global competitions, is a major plus factor in our desire to have a successful Friends Life t20 campaign,” said Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes.

“He can bowl at the start, middle or end of the innings and can clear the ropes as a batsman, so our supporters will enjoy watching his exciting performances."

Date: 05/03/2013 06:00:00 by Paul Bolton
In: Worcestershire | Today |