Fast bowler Paul van Meekeren has made cricketing history by becoming the first-ever Dutch player to sign for a Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise.
Coming hot on the heels off his stint with Durham, it will provide much-needed playing momentum to the Dutchman, ahead of the T20 World Cup in two month’s time. The quick’s signing was announced on St Kitts and Nevis Patriots’ Twitter page.
He will be a like for like replacement for South African Anrich Nortje and will join fellow overseas professionals the Pakistani Asif Ali who replaced Rassie van der dussen, the Australian leggie Fawad Ahmed who replaced Wanindu Hassaranga and former England player Ravi Bopara, who replaced Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
Also in the Patriots squad will be the legendary T20 duo of Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo. Guyana’s Sherfane Rutherford is also set to represent the Patriots. Dutch cricketer Roelof van der Merwe has also played CPL cricket in the past, though his 2014 appearance for St. Lucia came during his career with South Africa; prior to his switch to the Netherlands.
The Dutchman shared his joy on social media after the signing was made public. “Another new adventure!! Exciting times and can’t wait to get out there and play,” van Meekeren tweeted.
Last year, he had set social media ablaze with his announcement of working as an Uber Eats delivery man to earn an income. The Caribbean Premier League is due to be held from 26th August to 15th September, 2021. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the entirety of the tournament will be played at Warner Park, Basseterre; which is SKN Patriots’ home ground.