Rutherford Signs for T20 Blast

Leicestershire CCC is excited to announce the signing of New Zealand international Hamish Rutherford, who will represent the Running Foxes in the upcoming Vitality Blast.

The vastly experienced opener will replace Afghanistan batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz, whose availability is restricted due to increased IPL and international commitments.

Rutherford played for New Zealand in their recent tour match against Sussex and is set to link up with his new teammates for the Running Foxes’ T20 Blast campaign.

The 33-year-old has played 166 career T20 matches, amassing a total of 3938 runs at an average of 25.4, and boasting an impressive strike rate of 144.09.

Rutherford has represented the Black Caps on eight occasions in the shortest format, scoring 151 runs at 21.57, with a similar strike rate to his domestic form, going at 143.8.

The left-hander already possesses extensive knowledge of the county game, having previously played for Essex, Derbyshire, Worcestershire and Glamorgan.

He scored his maiden T20 hundred in England while opening for the Pears at New Road in 2020, clubbing a 62-ball hundred against his future side Glamorgan, whom he represented last summer.

It was the second T20 ton of Rutherford’s career, having recorded a career-best 106 for Otago against Central Districts at New Plymouth in 2016, while he later finished as leading run-scorer for his side in the 2018“19 Super Smash.

The Kiwi completes Leicestershire’s squad for this summer’s Vitality Blast, featuring alongside the returning Naveen ul-Haq for the three-time T20 champions.

Upon signing for the Club, Rutherford said: “I am delighted to be joining Leicestershire for the Blast. I always enjoy playing county cricket and to be able to play another campaign is really exciting.
“I know the Club has a talented young squad and a proud T20 history, so hopefully I can put up some decent numbers and contribute to a successful campaign.”

Speaking about the signing, LCCC Director of Cricket, Claude Henderson, said: “We are extremely excited to welcome Hamish to Leicestershire and thank New Zealand Cricket for facilitating the signing.

“He is very familiar with County Cricket and has proven qualities that will be a real asset to our squad.”

See Hamish in action for Leicestershire during this summer’s T20 Blast by securing your tickets HERE.