Surrey bring in Sean Abbott for Championship and Blast
Australian to join champions for start of season and be available until end of July
ESPNcricinfo staff
26-Jan-2023
Sean Abbott was the leading wicket-taker in the BBL group stage • Getty Images
Sean Abbott, the Australia seamer, has signed to play for Surrey in the LV= Insurance County Championship and Vitality T20 Blast this summer.
Abbott, 30, who had an injury-affected spell at the club in 2021, will join for the start of the season and be available until the end of July. Surrey have previously announced the signing of Kemar Roach as one of their overseas players for the first block of six Championship games.
"It is great to be back on board with Surrey this summer. I can't wait to get back to The Kia Oval and join the lads and build on such a successful 2022 season," Abbott said.
The signing of Abbott strengthens Surrey's pace options for their Championship defence, following the announcement that Jamie Overton will be out for a significant chunk of the season with a back stress fracture.
Surrey's director of cricket, Alec Stewart, said: "I'm looking forward to welcoming Sean back to Surrey. We saw what he could do in his brief spell here in 2021 and I've kept in contact with him since, whilst monitoring his performances. His skillset and character will be an asset to our dressing room this season.
"It's a big blow to lose Jamie Overton with his back injury, as he's such a valuable asset to the team. He will receive all our support throughout his rehab programme and we look forward to welcoming him back when he's 100% fit.
"In his absence, Sean will bring his own experience of winning trophies and is very capable with both bat and ball. Sean will add real strength to the group and he has the all the tools necessary to help us as we look to build upon a successful 2022."