Damien Wright joins Worcestershire

Worcestershire have signed Victorian allrounder Damien Wright for the early part of the 2011 season. Wright will arrive in time for the first home Championship match against Yorkshire on 8th April.

Wright is currently in the middle of the Australian season and has taken 19 wickets at 24.10 in the Sheffield Shield. His exploits with that bat have been less impressive, with 59 runs at 11.80.

Wright played for Somerset in the early part of last season and joins a Worcestershire side that was promoted from Division Two after a successful season in 2010.

Steve Rhodes, Worcestershire's director of cricket, thinks Wright's bowling will be well suited to the challenges of moving up a level. "Damien is an ideal bowler for early season conditions in England and his experience and quality will be a huge bonus in getting a good start to what will be a very challenging year in Division One," said Rhodes.

"His hard working no nonsense style of cricket will be terrific for our dressing room and to gain his signature in front of other county interest is a boost for our players, staff and supporters."

Wright is similarly excited about his move and feels he has something to offer both on and off the field at New Road. "I can't wait to arrive at Worcester in April," he said.

"I have loved every minute of my previous experiences in county cricket and the opportunity to play at New Road is an exciting one. Worcestershire have a group of talented young bowlers that I look forward to playing alongside and also working with off the field as well."