Bears have bolstered their Vitality Blast pace attack with the signing of New Zealand international Zak Foulkes.
The 22-year-old, with a pair of international T20s to his name, will be available for the remaining six games of the group stage.
A right-arm seamer, who hails from Christchurch, Foulkes has risen through the Canterbury pathway into the national senior set-up.
After taking 16 wickets in the 2023/24 domestic Super Smash for the Kings, Foulkes was named in the New Zealand squad to tour Pakistan in April where he took the wicket of Fakhar Zaman in his second appearance.
The south islander has taken 87 career wickets to date, with 27 of those coming in the short form game.
“I’m delighted to be a Bear,” said Foulkes. “Warwickshire is a top club and it’s nice to get this opportunity in an exciting tournament like the Blast.
“The Bears have got off to a great start and I can see why they’re top of the group after winning four straight matches. I’m looking forward to pressing my case for a starting berth and helping the side reach their goal of playing at Finals Day.”
The Club would like to thank Lytham Cricket & Sports Club for cooperating in the deal.
The Love Lane Liverpool and District Cricket Premier League outfit signed Foulkes as their overseas pro for the 2024 campaign, but have stood aside to allow the talented youngster to call Edgbaston home for the next four weeks.
“We’re extremely grateful to Lytham as we believe Zak will be a key addition to our bowling group,” said Performance Director Gavin Larsen. “Having originally seen Zak develop through the New Zealand pathway firsthand, he was someone I’ve kept an eye on since.
“Playing league cricket in Liverpool this summer has allowed the coaching staff to see Zak up close and in recent matches we’ve got him around the group.
“The reports have been good and I know Zak will provide stiff competition for what is already an exciting group of bowlers.”
Foulkes follows in the footsteps of a strong New Zealand and Bears connection.
The Black Caps have been well represented at Edgbaston with Jeetan Patel, Brendan McCullum, Daniel Vettori, Roger Twose and Tom Pritchard all wearing, and impressing as a Bear.
“I’ve spoken to my Canterbury teammate Michael Rae and he has nothing but great things to say about the club.
“There is a rich history with the Bears and seeing the names on the board was pretty cool. Hopefully, I can play a part in bringing more success to the Bears.”
Buy your Vitality Blast tickets in advance & save
Tickets for this summer’s Vitality Blast are on sale now and fans can save up to £6 when purchased in advance.
Tickets available from just £22, while under 16s are only £5. And make further savings when you book as a group of six or more.
