Young bowler Michael Booth signs three-year contract with Warwickshire

The Zimbabwe-born bowler made his Warwickshire debut in the 2023 One-Day Cup, taking his maiden wicket against Worcestershire

Young fast bowler Michael Booth has signed his first professional contract with Warwickshire, putting pen to paper on a three-year deal which will keep him in the West Midlands until 2026.

Booth made his senior debut for the county against Glamorgan in the 2023 One-Day Cup in August before taking his first wicket for Warwickshire – Worcestershire's Ben Cox - three days later.

The Zimbabwean-born right-armer moved to England to study at Durham University in 2020 and has been part of Warwickshire's setup since 2021. He previously represented South African side KwaZulu-Natal Inland at age-group level.

Instant impression. Big goals. 🙌

🐻#YouBears

— Warwickshire CCC 🏏 (@WarwickshireCCC) October 27, 2023

Booth said: "I finished my university studies in June, but my biggest hope was always to get a contract. I'm so thankful to Warwickshire giving me an opportunity and I'm determined to prove my worth and keep improving.

"I've been working with Barnesy (bowling coach Stuart Barnes) on seam position and bowling quick. Every day I'm working on getting that little bit faster. I think I've got that extra yard and can utilise that in short spells and do some damage.

"I want to break into all formats – red and white ball – and improve my batting to become a proper No.7. I'll be working hard all winter and want to make a big impression next season."

^{Booth has been working with bowling coach Stuart Barnes at Edgbaston [David Rogers/Getty Images]}

Head coach Mark Robinson added: "Michael has impressed everyone at the club in his short time with us.

"He is very conscientious as a person, can bowl a heavy ball, and has promise to become a true bowling allrounder if he continues to work hard.

"We are all excited about watching him develop over the next few years and start to make an impact in the first team."

Booth is the latest player to sign terms with Warwickshire, with Kai Smith recently signing a rookie contract. The Cricketer understands Sussex left-armer George Garton will join the county on a white-ball contract for 2024.

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