Published: Apr 01, 2015, 07:49 PM (IST)
Edited: Apr 01, 2015, 07:49 PM (IST)
Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has been signed by Sachin Tendulkar’s previous county club Yorkshire as a replacement to overseas player Younis Khan, who pulled out of the agreement. However, Pujara’s availability is subjected to work permit being granted, said club’s Director, Martyn Moxon.
Younis Khan pulled out sighting problem of Pakistan tour of Bangladesh, Yorkshire official website mentioned.
“It is very disappointing, at this late stage, to pull out of the agreement with Younis,” said Moxon.
“When the deal was agreed initially, it was on the understanding that Younis would not tour Bangladesh with Pakistan. Younis made it clear to us on Sunday that he would find it difficult to turn down should he be selected. At this late stage that is no good to us. We had to make a decision and as result we have decided to cancel his contract.”
Yorkshire were fast in getting Pujara on boad after an agreement was signed the Board of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI) allowing the Indian batsman to play for the county club until the end of May. After which, Aaron Finch will join the club following the end of Indian Premier League. Director Moxon was hopeful that Pujara will be available to play in Yorkshire’s opening match against Worcestershire on Sunday April 12.
“We have moved quickly to bring in Pujara and he is a superb player,” added Moxon.
“He is an outstanding young Test cricketer, who is hungry to perform in the English game. In the brief conversations I have had with him, he is very much looking forward to be joining Yorkshire and being part of our plans.”
“He is a classy right-hander that likes to dominate the crease and he will be a big asset for us during the early part of the new campaign.
“He speaks fondly of wanting to play for Yorkshire and we are looking forward to welcoming to Headingley and hopefully he can make an impression in the first month of the season with us”.
Speaking on his Yorkshire selection, Pujara said, “I’m very excited and honoured to be signing for Yorkshire County Cricket Club.”
“I was looking to return to the UK after my previous experience of county cricket, which I greatly enjoyed and when Yorkshire made the offer I didn’t think twice. To wear the same white rose Sachin Tendulkar did is going to be a great feeling for me. I hope I can contribute to further success.”
