Miguel Cummins signs Kolpak deal with Middlesex, quits West Indies

Carribean pacer Miguel Cummins has called quits on his international career by opting to play in English County cricket. The 29-year old has signed a three-year deal with Middlesex, ruling him out of contention for his national team selection. The move comes as a surprise as Cummins was on the fringes of selection in the senior Test squad. He recently played a Test match at home against India in the first game of the series.

Cummins played as an overseas player for Middlesex last month, impressing with his performances for the side. In 3 matches, he managed to pick up 8 wickets constantly troubling the batsmen. He is not the first West Indian pacer to take the Kolpak route and make a successful career in the English domestic circuit. Fidel Edwards playing for Hampshire and Ravi Rampaul playing for Derbyshire have become cornerstones of their respective sides.

His failure to cement a regular spot in a talented West Indian fast bowling lineup may have played a big role in Cummins signing a Kolpak deal. Making his debut in 2016, Cummins has so far played 14 Test matches, picking up 27 wickets. He averages 40.14 with 1 five-wicket haul to his name. He has also played 11 ODIs, picking up 9 wickets.

The signing of Cummins came after a recommendation of their coach Stuart Law. The pacer previously worked with Law when he was in charge of the Windies between 2017 and 2018.

Apart from signing Cummins, Middlesex are also in search for a new skipper after Dawid Malan stepped down from the role. Despite a successful season on the personal front, Middlesex had a poor season in the second division finishing in the eighth spot on the table.