ast bowler Brandon Glover has signed a three-year contract with Northamptonshire.
The Netherlands international, who bowls at speeds in excess of 85mph, was the leading wicket taker in T20 International cricket in 2019 and topped the wicket takers list at the recent ICC World T20 Qualifiers. Despite already performing on the world stage, the 22-year-old was looking forward to the challenge of county cricket.
“I’m real excited to get playing in the UK.” Glover said.
“County cricket is world renowned as being one of the best, it’s really competitive with some of the top players in the world taking part and I can’t wait to put myself up against these challenges and play high class cricket in front of good support.”
Born in South Africa, Glover has been close friends with batsman Ricardo Vasconcelos since they were kids and Vasconcelos said he was looking forward to welcoming him to the Northamptonshire dressing room.
“Brandon’s a very outgoing character that’s going to not just fit in extremely well but also add a lot to our dressing room. He’s definitely a different character but in the best sort of way.” he said.
“I would probably describe him as a crazy fast bowler – fiery, competitive, aggressive and a bit awkward at times.”
Glover represented South Africa at Under 19 level before leading the Netherlands attack under the watchful eye of Northamptonshire’s new bowling coach Chris Liddle.
“He’s been a pleasure to work with and his competitive nature and his wicket taking ability stood out for me.” Liddle said.
“Brandon’s a young and very exciting bowler with genuine pace and a fantastic attitude. He’s a great addition to what is already an exciting bowling group we have here at Northants and gives us a real mix of variety and depth.”
Despite his strong connection with Glover, Liddle said the quick was already on Northamptonshire’s radar when he arrived.
“The club already had an eye on Brandon and I just confirmed to them that he’s a player we don’t want to miss out on. It’s not often a young fast bowler like him is available, he had a lot of interest from elsewhere too so it’s great that he sees us a place he can develop as a cricketer.” Liddle said.
Despite interest from other clubs, Glover said choosing Northamptonshire felt like the better decision.
“I’m quite familiar with the town and team, having come over to play here once at U19 international level and then for one or two games last year. I know a few guys in the team, I grew up with Ricardo, and they all seem like a really good bunch of lads. The set up seems really welcoming, professional, and looks like an environment where I can really grow and perform.”