Major League Cricket announced today the signing of former England international Liam Plunkett. The Englishman has made more than 100 Test, One Day and T20 appearances for his country, taking 201 wickets in international cricket. Plunkett starred in the 2019 World Cup final, taking three critical wickets for England in a famous victory over New Zealand at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Plunkett will be located in the Philadelphia area, where his wife is from, and has signed an agreement with Major League Cricket to support the development of the game in the United States by playing with, coaching and mentoring the next generation of American cricketers.
The Englishman will also play for The Philadelphians in the Toyota Minor League Cricket Championship starting in the 2022 season, as well as taking part in Major League Cricket when it launches.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to join Major League Cricket and focus my attention on helping to grow the sport in the United States. I’ve enjoyed a fantastic career with England, and after retiring from international cricket, I am delighted to be able to help build cricket in America in both playing and coaching capacities,” stated Plunkett. “In addition, I am looking forward to supporting the team closest to our home in America by being able to play for The Philadelphians in Minor League Cricket.”
Plunkett, 36, began his professional cricket career with Durham in the English County Championship in 2003, and made his international debut for England in 2005. He has also played in the County Championship for Yorkshire and since 2019, for Surrey. Plunkett, a right-arm fast bowler, has featured in T20 cricket in the Indian Premier League for the Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals) and in the Big Bash League for the Melbourne Stars.
In addition to taking more than 450 wickets in First Class cricket, Plunkett has also scored 4,378 runs at an average of 24.73, often contributing crucial runs in the lower order, scoring 22 half-centuries and three centuries with a highest score of 126.
“We are delighted to have a player of Liam’s caliber joining Major League Cricket, as we continue to make great progress towards bringing world-class T20 cricket to America for the first time,” said Justin Geale, Tournament Director, Major League Cricket. “Liam’s enthusiasm to support the game’s growth at every level is going to be a huge asset for cricket in America, and we’re excited to see him support and play for The Philadelphians in Minor League Cricket in 2022.”
