Big-hitting left-arm seamer will arrive after completion of IPL stint

Sams, 29, has built a solid reputation in the Big Bash League over recent years, with his left-arm seam bowling and powerful batting. A regular pick with Sydney Thunder, he has been capped seven times in T20 internationals and also appeared at the IPL.

He was signed by Mumbai Indians in last month’s IPL auction, and will head to Essex after the completion of his stint in India. The final of the IPL is scheduled for May 29, two days after Essex begin their Blast campaign with a game against Kent.

“I’m very pleased to secure the signing of Dan for the upcoming Vitality Blast campaign,” Essex head coach, Anthony McGrath, said. “He’s such a versatile player and has consistently been one of the top performers in the Big Bash in recent years.

“His left-arm angle is so effective in T20 cricket, but he also possesses an excellent change of pace which makes him a real handful. He will also add some firepower to our batting unit, and he hits a long ball.”

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to be part of Essex Eagles for the Vitality Blast this season,” Sams said. “It is exciting to join a club with such a long and rich history and I look forward to joining the players, coaching staff and supporters and contributing on and off the field to the team’s success.”

Essex, Blast winners in 2019, have not progressed past the group stage in each of the last two summers.

Essex’s CEO and interim chair, John Stephenson, added: “Dan is a player of great pedigree and Anthony, along with the rest of his team, were very keen to get him in for the Blast campaign. We’re looking to improve on last year’s performance in the shortest format and adding Dan to the squad will help give impetus to the progression of our T20 side.”