Kyle Abbott’s international looks in doubt for now as the fast bowler is contemplating to sign a long-term deal with county club Hampshire. Abbott has been deprived of opportunities for South Africa in the recent times, especially in Test cricket, despite his handful of success in international cricket.
Though not being a consistent performer for South Africa so far, but the lack of opportunities has been the main reason behind him being inconsistent at this level.
The fast bowler is thinking to retire from international cricket in order to sign the deal with Hampshire county club. He is expected to earn a handful amount of £100,000 a year from the deal and along with it comes an insurance cover inbuilt in the deal. He will also be allowed to play in some of the T20 leagues around the world.
The emergence of fast bowlers in South Africa like Kagiso Rabada and quota policy of South Africa also played a key role in fast bowler thinking to move ahead, leaving South Africa behind. He has already been a victim of this policy when he made way for Vernon Philander in the semi-finals of the World Cup 2015, which South Africa eventually lost in the end.
Hampshire is also showing a keen interest in the fast bowler as they need someone to step up the ranks with the ball.
Abbott will announce a final decision over this in few weeks time or maybe at the end of the month, which will also mean a full stop on his international career.
Meanwhile, if Hampshire fails to secure services of Abbott then they can go for another South African in Rilee Rossouw who is open to play for the county before Brexit recommendations are imposed.