Kraigg Brathwaite to play for Gloucestershire in County Championship

West Indies Test captain and opener Kraigg Brathwaite was signed up by English county club Gloucestershire for the 2021 county season.

The 28-year-old Windies cricketer will be available for their first eight matches but could realistically play from the third round of matches due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“I have always enjoyed county cricket and cherished the times I’ve been able to play in England. I’m excited to come to Bristol and do my best for the team, the club and of course the Gloucestershire supporters.” Kraigg Brathwaite expressed.

Brathwaite represented Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire in the past in County Championship around 2017-19.

The West Indies cricketer made his debut as a 18 year old against Pakistan at Basseterre. Ever since he scored 4113 Test runs at an average of 33.43 with the help of 9 centuries and 21 half centuries. He registered his highest score of 212 against Bangladesh.

He also has over 10,000 First Class runs at an average of 38.65 with the help of 24 centuries and 55 half centuries. He has a career highest score of 246 runs.

“To be able to bring somebody in who has played the number of Tests Kraigg has, and now as captain, is going to be a massive boost for the guys in the dressing room. He will obviously add quality to the team now but also moving forward as a group, his presence here will be extremely beneficial for us.” Interim coach Ian Harvey told.

County Championship begins on 8^th April as Gloucestershire take on Surrey in their first match.

Kraigg Brathwaite is likely to open the innings with Gloucestershire captain Chris Dent. The county club had a dismal show in Bob Willis Trophy winning just one match out of five fixtures and would be looking to put on a better show this season.