Viljoen to return, this time at Derby

HARDUS Viljoen will return to county cricket after the South African bowler signed a three-year deal with Derbyshire.

Viljoen, 27, played four games for Kent last season, taking 20 wickets at an impressive average of 19. He has claimed 367 first-class wicket at an average of 26 in his career to date.

The right-arm bowler will feature as a non-overseas player, subject to successful registration under the Kolpak ruling. And with the signing secured, Derbyshire director of cricket Kim Barnett is looking for Viljoen to become his team’s leader.

Barnett said: “It was clear last summer that we lacked a consistent threat with the ball. 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.

“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.”

Viljoen took the wicket of England captain Alastair Cook with his first ball in Test cricket in January, his only international appearance to date.

Kent offered Viljoen a contract, but the paceman felt that Derbyshire is the place to progress his career.

Viljoen said: “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.

“The changes made both off and on the field are a big factor in my decision that Derbyshire is the right move for me at this stage of my career.

“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.” Kent made an offer for Hardus Viljoen but he chose to further his career elsewhere. After such a stellar spell at Canterbury, that begs the question – why? Either way, it’s a brilliant coup for Derbyshire. Viljoen has the skills to compete internationally, and he could prove to be the leader that Kim Barnett so desperately craves