After signing for Rising Pune Supergiants as a replacement for injured Faf du Plessis in the cash-rich league, former Australian captain George Bailey has, even more, reasons to become happy as English county club Middlesex announced Bailey will be taking his compatriot Adam Voges’ spot while Voges travel to Sri Lanka for the three-Test tour this winter.
The right-hander, who previously represented Hampshire,played for Sussex in 2015.
“I can’t wait to get over there. I’m itching to play in the UK again after a productive and enjoyable stint last year,” Bailey told the Middlesex CCC website. “Middlesex is a quality club and I’m looking forward to helping them achieve their objectives this season. “Playing at Lord’s is an absolute honour. Who wouldn’t want to have Lord’s as their home ground?”
Bailey will be available at the club from the end of June through to the middle of August and is available for selection in all formats for Middlesex.
Middlesex CCC’s Managing Director of Cricket, Angus Fraser, expressed his delight for acquiring the service of Bailey.
“Obtaining high-quality overseas player cover for an entire season is extremely difficult and everyone at Middlesex is delighted that we have been able to acquire the services of a player of George’s ability,” he said.
“George is an outstanding cricketer with an excellent record in all forms of the game, and, as someone who has captained his country, he will be a valuable addition to the squad both on and off the field.
“George’s County Championship availability may be slightly affected by Australia’s schedule and selection but he will be available for all our T20 Blast and One-Day Cup group stage matches during an important and busy period of the summer between the end of June and mid-August.
“We look forward to welcoming George to Lord’s and I am sure our supporters will enjoy watching him perform for the county.”