South Africa speedster Hardus Viljoen signs 3-year Kolpak deal with Derbyshire

South Africa‘s pacer Hardus Viljoen has signed a Kolpak deal with Derbyshire for a period spanning for three years. Viljoen, who currently plies his trade for the South African domestic side Highveld Lions, is only the second player to have switched allegiances after left-hander Stiaan van Zyl who signed up with Sussex recently in November 2016. The 27-year-old has a only one Test scalp – in form of England’s skipper Alastair Cook – in his solitary appearance in whites for his nation. He, however, has featured in 92 First-Class matches, picking up 367 wickets. Viljoen also had a recent stint in County cricket by turning up for Kent in four matches at the end of this year’s season. He bagged 20 wickets at an average of 19.

According to Cricbuzz, “We’re delighted to secure Hardus to lead our line for the 2017 campaign. It was clear last summer that we lacked a consistent threat with the ball and we feel Hardus fits that bill. He’s a strike bowler who can bowl over 90 miles-an-hour and has experience both internationally and here in England,” stated Kim Barnett, Derbyshire’s Director.

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“It’s an exciting time for the Club as we regroup with a strategy that leaves the captain and players in charge of their own destiny, and Hardus will play a leading role both on and off the field,” added Barnett.

Viljoen cannot represent South Africa over the course of his deal with Derbyshire but will be free to play for Lions. The fast bowler, who has been a consistent wicket-taker in the ongoing CSA T20 Challenge, expressed his delight at this new innings in his career.

“I’m very happy and honoured to be joining Derbyshire. The Club has plans to challenge in all forms from day one next summer and I’m excited they have decided I’m the man to help them do this. I’ve had a brief taste of county cricket last season and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Now it will be my main focus and I can’t wait to charge in on that first game in 2017,” concluded Viljoen.