West Indies' Kemar Roach returns to Surrey for County Championship
What's the story
West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach has rejoined Surrey for his fifth straight County Championship season. The new deal will see him playing the first four rounds of the championship. During his stint with Surrey, Roach has taken a staggering 93 wickets at an average of 25.60 in 28 First-Class matches. His contributions have been key to three consecutive title wins for the defending champions. Here's more.
Player sentiments
Roach expresses excitement for new season with Surrey
"I've enjoyed every moment of my time with Surrey over the last four years and I'm excited to join up with the team again," Roach said, expressing his excitement about returning to Surrey as per the club's official website. "The Kia Oval is my second home and the environment led by Alec Stewart, Gareth Batty and Rory Burns is one of the best I've been a part of," he further added.
Team dynamics
Roach's return strengthens Surrey's bowling attack
Roach's return is likely to strengthen Surrey's bowling attack, which has already been bolstered by Yorkshire's Matt Fisher in the off-season. Additionally, New Zealand all-rounder Nathan Smith will also join the club in May. Surrey's high-performance cricket advisor Alec Stewart welcomed Roach back into the fold and lauded his quality and commitment to the club.
Numbers
Pacer owns 566 FC scalps
Roach has featured in 178 FC matches and has amassed 566 scalps. According to ESPNcricinfo, across 315 innings, he has an average of 26.17. Meanwhile, his best bowling figures (innings) are worth 8/40, while his best match figures are worth 10/80. The pacer also boasts 26 four-wicket-hauls, 23 five-wicket-hauls, and two 10-wicket-match hauls.
Twitter Post
X post from Surrey confirming Roach's return
A champion of swing and seam bowling 🌪️
— Surrey Cricket (@surreycricket) March 28, 2025
Buzzing for more of this, @KemarAJR 🔥⏳
🤎 | #SurreyCricket pic.twitter.com/aI71gKeGq8