Solanki confirms move to Surrey

By Paul Bolton, County News Correspondent

Former Worcestershire captain Vikram Solanki will join Surrey for the start of next season. The 36-year-old was given permission to speak to other counties two weeks ago after Worcestershire said that they were undecided on whether to offer Solanki a new contract.

Solanki is believed to have attracted interest from three counties but has decided to move to The Oval on a two-year deal.
 
"I'm incredibly grateful to Worcestershire for giving me my chance all of those years ago. I have many, many fond memories with the club both on and off the pitch with players, staff and supporters alike and the decision to end our long relationship has not been easy,” Solanki said.

"In recent weeks, with my contract ending and the club unsure of their direction for me, I've been able to discuss opportunities with interested counties. It's been from these discussions that Surrey have offered me an exciting chance to finish my career at the Kia Oval.

"I can assure all of my fellow players and county members that, until the end of the season, I will give my absolute all to Worcestershire."

Solanki, who played 51 one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals for England, made his first-class debut for Worcestershire in 1995 but spent 20 years with the county having started his career playing club cricket in Wolverhampton. He captained Worcestershire from 2004 until he stepped down in August 2010 having guided them to the Pro 40 title in 2007.

"It is with regret that Worcestershire CCC and Vikram Solanki have agreed that he will leave the county at the end of the present season,” said Worcestershire chief executive David Leatherdale.

“Vikram approached the club a few weeks ago with regards his future, as his contract ends this September and it was expressed at that time that the county would not be in a position to offer a contract but hoped to be in a position to do so later in the year when the club's financial position is clearer.

"The club fully understood Vikram's wish to have greater certainty about his future and gave permission for him to talk to other counties due to his long standing at the club. We understand Vikram has now received and accepted an offer from Surrey and therefore reluctantly Vikram will be leaving the club at the end of the season.

"The club and its supporters thank Vikram for his 20 years of service to the county, and for his elegant batting and successful captaincy. Vikram will always receive a warm welcome at New Road and we wish him the very best for the future."


Date: 19/07/2012 21:03:00 by Paul Bolton
In: Worcestershire | Today | Surrey |