Aussie batter claims overseas deal ahead of key WTC27 series

Australia opener Jake Weatherald has boosted his chances of maintaining his place at the top of the order in the Test side by picking up an overseas deal with England side Leicestershire.

Weatherald only made his Test debut for Australia in November, but the left-hander featured in all five Ashes Tests against England for mixed results as he scored 201 runs at an average of 22.33 as the Aussies clinched the series 4-1.

With Australia set to host Bangladesh in August as part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship and ahead of crucial series against South Africa, New Zealand and India, Weatherald has chosen to head overseas with Leicestershire and lock in a playing stint with the county side during the early stages of the new season.

It will provide Weatherald the chance to maintain the form that saw him earn an international call-up at the end of last year and the 31-year-old is excited to be heading to England to play for Leicestershire for the first time.

“I’m absolutely buzzing to join Leicestershire for this first block of the County Championship," Weatherald said.

"It’s my first taste of county cricket, and honestly, I couldn’t be more excited.

"Everyone I’ve spoken to has talked about how special the county circuit is — the history, the crowds, the grind — and I’m really looking forward to being part of that.

"I can’t wait to meet the lads, settle in, and hopefully make a real impact for the Foxes.”

The opportunity at Leicestershire could also have long-term ramifications for Weatherald, with the next World Test Championship Final to be held at Lord's in 2027 just prior to the upcoming Ashes series between Australia and England.

Australia currently sit in first place on the World Test Championship standings and are well placed to feature in a third straight final.