Strikers add Pollard for three years

The Adelaide Strikers have today announced the signing of West Indies star Kieron Pollard for three years.

Pollard, whose last T20 match was for the Mumbai Indians in the qualifying stage of the Oppo Champions League Twenty 20, will join BBL|03’s seventh-placed side for this year's KFC T20 Big Bash League, with an eye to lifting the Strikers to their first finals appearance after three failed attempts.

“I’m delighted to say I am coming back home to the newly revamped Adelaide Oval,” Pollard told fans in a video message from India

“I’m looking forward to hitting loads of sixes and entertaining you, the Strike Force.”

The 27-year-old West Indian is no stranger to Australian cricket fans with Pollard suiting up for the Strikers in BBL|02, averaging 34.50 at a strike rate of 168.29 and snaring five wickets at 21.60.

Pollard also played for South Australia before the introduction of the BBL in 2011-12.

“It’s a great feeling for me, ever since I played with the Redbacks (in T20), I’ve loved the Adelaide Oval. I love the short side boundaries even though I love to hit straight,” said Pollard.

“I just love the support I get when I walk out to bat.

"It makes you feel great as a sportsman to know that your fans are behind you 100 per cent, no matter the result.”

In a six-year T20I career Pollard has tallied 598 runs at an average of 22.14 and has taken 18 wickets at an average of 28.22.

With the Strikers losing batsmen Callum Ferguson, Michael Klinger and Alex Hales, Pollard will add some much sought-after experience to Johan Botha’s side.

“Polly is the ultimate T20 player, who is able to make a real impact with both the bat and ball,” Strikers coach Darren Berry said.

“He thrives under the high pressure conditions of the Big Bash and doesn’t back down when challenged, which is something he is able to pass on to some of our younger players.

“He just has the x-factor that not every player has and plays with a lot of passion."

"We know the fans are going to be just as excited to see Polly back in Striker blue as we are."

“We have signed a number of players, including Polly, on long term contracts this year and it is great to know as a coach that we will be able to build on this season for years to come.”

Adelaide Strikers squad: Jono Dean, Travis Head, Brad Hodge, Phil Hughes, Trent Lawford, Ben Laughlin, Tim Ludeman, Michael Neser, Kieron Pollard, Gary Putland, Kane Richardson, Chadd Sayers, Craig Simmons, Shaun Tait, Adam Zampa.