Kemar Roach returns to Surrey ahead of 2023 season

West Indies pacer Kemar Roach has returned to English club Surrey ahead of the 2023 County Championship season. Roach first joined Surrey in the 2021 season and was also part of their title-winning season last year. He played a crucial role, with 25 wickets at an impressive average of 26.34 from seven matches.

The 34-year-old speedster was part of the West Indies' Test squad when they traveled to Australia in November-December 2022 but struggled to make any impact with just one wicket across two innings. He was not part of the second Test. However, he enjoyed a good season with Surrey last year, and Gareth Batty, Surrey's new head coach, welcomed the speedster back, saying that his experience will be important in the dressing room.

"We're looking forward to welcoming Kemar back to Surrey. He brings great ability and work ethic, and his experience plays an important role in the dressing room. Kemar has already shown what he can do in his time at the club so far and we're excited to have him joining us again this year," Batty said in an official statement.

I can't wait to get back out on the pitch: Kemar Roach

Roach will be available for Surrey's first match, against Lancashire at Old Trafford from April 6, and can feature in the first home game at The Oval against Hampshire from April 13. He is also expected to be available for two home derby matches against Middlesex from May 11 and for Kent from May 18.

Roach, who recently reached 250 wickets in Tests, said that he can't wait to join Surrey and get back out on the pitch. "I really enjoy playing for Surrey and winning the title last year was incredible to be a part of. It's such a talented and exciting group of players and I can't wait to get back out on the pitch representing the club," Roach said.

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