Brathwaite signs up for Kent campaign

West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite will turn out for Kent Spitfires in the England T20 Blast, after penning a four-match contract.

The 29-year-old will play the County’s opening four fixtures of the tournament which runs from July 4 to September 15.

Brathwaite, currently with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League, said he was looking forward to the stint.

“I have a good relationship with Sam Billings, having played in the same team at the IPL and BBL,” the Barbadian said.

“Sam chatted to me about the opportunity to join and has told me a lot about the great support and atmosphere on T20 nights.

“I hope I can entertain the supporters and am looking forward to joining up with the Spitfires squad.”

Brathwaite shot to prominence in the final of the T20 World Cup in India when he blasted sixes off the first four balls of the last over from England’s Ben Stokes, to lift the Windies to a dramatic win.

He is a big-hitting right-hander who bowls steady medium pace, and captains the West Indies side.

Kent’s director of cricket, Paul Downton, said Brathwaite’s skills set would be asset to the club’s campaign. “Carlos is a proven match winner. He is an explosive ball striker and a skillful white-ball bowler with good variations and extensive experience in the 20-over format,” Downton explained.

“We are excited that Carlos will be with us for the start of our Vitality Blast campaign. I’m sure he’ll make an impact in his brief spell with the Spitfires.”

Brathwaite will link up with the Spitfires side ahead of their opening group fixture against Surrey on July 6.