Surrey County Cricket Club can announce the signing of New Zealand all-rounder, Grant Elliott as their overseas player for the first part of the season.
Elliott, who turns 30 next week, announced himself on cricket’s world stage with an impressive one-day series against Australia where he was New Zealand’s leading run scorer with 210 runs at 52.5 which included 115 in the third match at the SCG. With his ability to bowl some economical overs in the middle of the innings, changing his pace to keep batsmen guessing, Elliott’s presence at the Brown Caps will be welcomed, especially in the one day arena.
Born in Johannesburg, Elliott left his native South Africa for New Zealand in 2001 and after completing his residency qualification in 2007, he played his first Test Match against England in March 2008. Since then has played a further two Tests as well as proving to be a very useful all-rounder in one day cricket. In just 20 matches to date, Elliott averages over 50 with the bat at a strike rate of 82.06 (as at 13 March) and an average of 24.46 with the ball which includes 13 wickets at a good economy rate of 5.1.
Commenting on the signing of Elliott, Surrey Cricket Manager, Chris Adams said, “Grant has proven that he is a top class all-rounder at the highest level and having someone of his ability around will definitely strengthen us, especially in one day cricket where we have not been as successful in recent times. Every competition is important to us and Grant’s inclusion will help balance out our squad which will give us additional options when it comes to selection.”
Elliott, who is currently involved in the New Zealand and India one day series said, “I’m really excited about playing for Surrey. It will be a great opportunity for me and I hope I can make a difference and help to win some games for the Club during my time there. The Club has a great history and after hearing of some of the changes there over the winter, it looks as though it will be an exciting time to be involved. I’m really looking forward to meeting the guys and getting stuck in.”
Managing Director of Surrey Cricket, Gus Mackay concluded by saying, “We see Grant helping our one day cricket first and foremost but his presence will be a huge boost for the guys. I’m hoping that his confidence and will to succeed will rub off on some of the younger members of our squad, who will no doubt learn a lot from having him around.”
Elliott is expected to arrive on 21 April and will be with Surrey until the end of May which will mean he is available for eight Friends Provident matches, two Championship and five Twenty20 Cup games.
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