Derbyshire unveil Abbott signing

Derbyshire have confirmed the signing of former Australia fast bowler Sean Abbott for the first half of the 2020 campaign. The New South Wales ace has never played in the English game but will be heading across the globe for the start of the season in April. Abbott has taken 137 wickets in 50 first-class matches for his state, while also playing in the Big Bash League for the Sydney Thunder and Sydney Sixers. He recently featured in the Indian Premier League for Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Derbyshire head of cricket Dave Houghton expects him to make a big difference to their bowling attack. “We were keen to strengthen our bowling attack, and Sean will do just that,” he told reporters. “He is an international bowler and has a good record across all formats, and that kind of versatility will be key for us next season.” Abbott is set to arrive in the new year, and he says he wants to be a major player for the club. He added: “I want to lead from the front and hopefully help the younger lads in their development at the same time, whilst having team success along the way.”