Talented youngster Muzarabani joins Northamptonshire

Muzarabani will be available for Northamptonshire in all formats from next season on a deal that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2021 English county season

^{Promising Zimbabwean seamer Blessing Muzarabani has signed for Northamptonshire}

21-year-old Zimbabwean seamer Blessing Muzarabani has signed for Northamptonshire on a three-year contract ahead of the 2019 English season.

Muzarabani, who has played 18 one-day internationals, six T20Is and one Test for Zimbabwe, taking 27 wickets across the three formats, will be available for Northamptonshire in all formats from next season on a deal that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2021 English county season.

Speaking about the move, Muzarabani said: “I've come here to chase my dreams. I want to perform and achieve. I just can't wait to get started.”

David Ripley, Northamptonshire head coach, is excited at the prospect of helping the youngster develop his game in England.

Ripley said: “We’ve been talking to Blessing for quite some time and were impressed by the way he played for the second team against Durham in May.

“He’s got a lot to learn and he knows it, but we’re looking forward to helping him achieve his potential at the County Ground over the next few years.”

The signing comes on the back of Muzarabani’s decision to call time on his international career last month, instead turning his attentions to county cricket.

At the time, Zimbabwe Cricket issue a statement which read: "Blessing Muzarabani has put his international career with (Zimbabwe) on hold, opting to pursue his options in England.

"The 21-year-old fast bowler played one Test, 18 ODIs and six T20 internationals for Zimbabwe. We wish him well in his latest endeavours."

Muzarabani himself added: “I wish my former team-mates and Zimbabwe Cricket all the very best for the future. I have been honoured to represent my country but feel this is an appropriate time for me to pursue other challenges both personally and professionally.”