Smith signs up for Shark’s 2010 Twenty20 campaign

Sussex CCC is delighted to announce that Dwayne Smith will be in place as the Sharks’ second overseas player for 2010’s Friends Provident Twenty20 competition, subject to being granted a work permit.

Sussex Sharks won last year’s competition in emphatic style, with Smith scoring 59 from just 26 balls in the final to take Sussex to an unattainable 172 from their 20 overs. That form has seen Smith win a recall to the West Indies squad for their one day and Twenty20 Tour of Australia in February after nearly three years out of the international scene.

With this year’s extended Twenty20 tournament, Dwayne will be available to Sussex from 16th June at the very latest, which would make him available for the last 11 group matches of the tournament. The Club will be seeking a suitable replacement for the first 5 games of the tournament.

The signing would, of course, be subject to any West Indies Test commitments.

Dwayne scored 338 runs at an average of 33.80 in Sussex’s successful 2009 campaign. The all-rounder also bowled 24 overs, taking 8 wickets at an average of 20.62, and thrilled the crowds with his electrifying fielding.

Dwayne Smith said: “It’s great to be returning to my home away from home and I’m looking forward to representing Sussex in a big way next year. My time so far at Hove has been hugely enjoyable and I believe that my cricket has benefited an enormous amount from the coaching and team spirit that is so evident at the county.”

Mike Yardy, Sussex Captain, said: “Dwayne played a huge part in our Twenty20 success last season and it is very important to get a player who can change the direction of the game like he can.”