South African all-rounder George Linde leaves Kent to pursue franchise opportunities overseas

Kent County Cricket Club has confirmed that the South African cricketer George Linde has mutually decided to leave their set-up in search of franchise opportunities overseas.

The 31-year-old all-rounder joined Kent ahead of the 2022 season and spent two years with the club. During his stint with Kent, he made 38 appearances, scoring 622 runs and picking up 42 wickets. Additionally, the left-armer was a part of the team that won the One-Day Cup in 2022.

Becoming a father earlier in 2023, he eventually missed the early stage of the season. He was a regular in the Spitfires' T20 Blast season but is yet to appear in the County Championship Division 1. As a result of his departure, Kent now have only one overseas player, India's young pace sensation Arshdeep Singh.

Wish the Club the very best for the rest of the season and for the future: Linde

Outgoing Linde expressed his gratitude to his teammates, coaching staff as well as fans for their support during his playing time at Kent. He also stated that he hasn't got many opportunities to play four-day cricket this year and has decided to play more franchise cricket. He also wished the club all the best for the rest of the season and in the future.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Kent; my teammates and coaches as well as all the staff, Members and supporters, for making me feel a part of the Kent Cricket family during my time here," Linde said as quoted by Kent Cricket.

“Unfortunately I haven’t had much opportunity to play in the four-day game this year so I have decided to try and play more franchise cricket. I wish the Club the very best for the rest of the season and for the future," he added.

Meanwhile, Kent’s Director of Cricket, Paul Downton, also thanked Linde for his services during the two seasons.

“We thank George for his two seasons of service to Kent and he leaves us with our best wishes," said Downton.