Budinger and Walker Sign Up for US T20 League

Leicestershire CCC will have further representation in December’s US Open T20 Premier League, with Sol Budinger and Roman Walker becoming the latest Foxes to be snapped up.

Both will link up with Samp Army, joining teammate Michael Finan in featuring for the franchise who finished as runners-up in the league’s T10 format earlier this year.

The trio, along with Assistant Coach Alfonso Thomas, who has agreed to become Head Coach of Clarion County Eagles, will fly out to the States at the start of next month ahead of the nine-day tournament, which begins on 5 December.

Walker is set to earn his second overseas stint since joining the Foxes, after playing on seven occasions for Chennai Braves during the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10.

The 22-year-old took 14 wickets during his debut campaign with Leicestershire and starred during the high-profile visit of India’s Test stars in June, taking 5/24 in India’s first innings.

Speaking about his selection, Walker said: “I’m grateful to have another opportunity to hone my white-ball skills overseas. It’s an exciting competition and we have some talented players, so hopefully that’ll help build a winning mentality.”

Budinger’s white-ball pedigree formed part of Leicestershire’s desire to persuade him to make the East Midlands switch from Nottinghamshire in September.

The left-hander shone with 358 runs at an average of 44.75, buoyed by a strike rate of 142.06, in this summer’s Royal London Cup, while he smashed 114 off just 38 balls in a Second XI T20 in 2021.

Commenting on his addition, the 23-year-old said: “It’s my first taste of batting in overseas conditions, so I’m looking forward to the challenge of adapting to new pitches and facing different opponents.

“I hope to represent Leicestershire well and come back a stronger player ready for next season.”

Director of Cricket, Claude Henderson, added: “It’s brilliant to see more members of our squad being recognised for their white-ball skills.

“Getting game time during the winter months will complement the hard work the players are doing behind the scenes with our coaching staff and stand them in better stead for a successful 2023 campaign.”