Miguel Cummins quits West Indies, signs Kolpak deal with Middlesex

Pacer Miguel Cummins has left West Indies after signing a three-year Kolpak deal with Middlesex. During his time with the Caribbean nation, Cummins played 14 Tests and 11 ODIs. He last represented West Indies in the Antigua Test against India in August.

Cummins is the latest West Indies player who follows in the footsteps of Fidel Edwards (who joined Hampshire) and Ravi Rampaul (Derbyshire) who have signed the Kolpak deal.

During his brief tenure at Middlesex, the 29-year-old Cummins pocketed eight wickets in three Championship games. He previously played under Middlesex's coach, Stuart Law, when he was in charge of West Indies between 2017 and 2018.

"Stuart Law recommended that we get Miguel over, to have a look at him, on the back of the time he had spent with him whilst coaching the West Indies," Middlesex's director of cricket, Angus Fraser, was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on Tuesday.

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"I had watched Miguel on video, but it is often only when you see someone play live that you get a true reflection of their capabilities. I was immediately impressed by Miguel.

"He has control, is able to move the ball away from a right-handed batsman and, I believe, the ability to bowl fast, aggressive spells when conditions dictate. During the recent spell he spent with Middlesex he fit in really well and will be a popular member of our squad."

Meanwhile, Middlesex are in search for a new skipper this season after Dawid Malan announced that he was stepping down after two years in the role.

"Dawid has thrown his heart and soul into the role of club captain for the past two years, and on behalf of Middlesex Cricket, I would like to thank him for that," Fraser said.

"He has also shown great pride and dignity in the way he has handled a difficult season and he leaves the role knowing he has given it all he can.

"As a batsman the captaincy seems to have got the best out of him and he has had an excellent season. He has been our best player in testing batting conditions. That things have not worked out as we hoped is disappointing for everyone involved and we must take the responsibility for that. Personally, I would like to thank Dawid for his commitment to the role and his desire to take the club forward. We must now turn our attention to finding a suitable replacement to take this great club forward."