New Zealand’s fast bowling talent, Ben Sears, is set to join Yorkshire for the 2025 cricket season. He is expected to arrive in time for Yorkshire’s second County Championship match, which will be against Worcestershire at Headingley.
Sears, aged 27, has made a name for himself with his impressive speed, particularly during his Test debut against Australia in 2024. In that match, played in Christchurch, he took five wickets, including a notable 4 for 90 in the second innings. He first played for New Zealand in a T20 International against Bangladesh in 2021.
At Headingley, Sears will team up with fellow New Zealand fast bowler Will O’Rourke, who has signed on for the T20 Blast. Comparisons have also been drawn between Sears and Lockie Ferguson, another New Zealand cricketer who previously played for Yorkshire.
Sears expressed his enthusiasm about joining Yorkshire, saying, “I’m really looking forward to playing at Headingley and joining up with the team. The club has made some exciting signings already, and I hope to contribute to that.”
He added, “Starting strong is crucial at the beginning of the season. We have some important matches early on, and I’ll be ready to help the team get off to the best possible start.”
Yorkshire’s Head Coach, Anthony McGrath, commented on Sears’s abilities: “Ben is a genuinely talented bowler who can generate extra bounce. He will be a significant threat, especially in the early part of the season when pitches might be greener or slower. I’m excited to have him join us and start working with him.”
Gavin Hamilton, Yorkshire’s General Manager of Cricket, also shared his thoughts: “The fact that we can attract bowlers of Ben’s caliber demonstrates Yorkshire’s global appeal. Ben is an exciting player, and he will bring a valuable dimension to our squad this season.”
Hamilton concluded, “We are delighted that he has signed with us and are eager to welcome him to Headingley in April.”
