New Zealand fast bowler Ben Sears will join Yorkshire for the 2025 season, debuting against Worcestershire at Headingley. The 27-year-old has showcased his pace, taking five wickets in his only Test match against Australia in 2024 and previously debuting in T20Is against Bangladesh in 2021. Sears will be accompanied by fellow New Zealander Will O’Rourke for the T20 Blast. He aims to make an immediate impact, emphasizing the importance of a strong start to the season. Yorkshire’s Head Coach Anthony McGrath and General Manager Gavin Hamilton praised Sears’ talent and expressed excitement about his addition to the squad.
Sears, 27, has made a mark with his impressive raw pace for New Zealand, notably in his debut Test match against Australia in 2024, where he took five wickets in Christchurch, including 4 for 90 during the second innings. He previously debuted in T20I against Bangladesh in 2021.
He will be joined at Headingley by fellow Kiwi fast bowler Will O’Rourke, who has signed on for the T20 Blast. The club has also drawn parallels between him and his fellow countryman, former Yorkshire overseas player Lockie Ferguson.
“I’m eager to arrive at Headingley and start playing with the team,” Sears expressed. “The signings made thus far are really exciting, and I hope to contribute to that.
“Setting the right tone early in the season is crucial. We have some significant games in the initial phase, and I’m ready to help the team get off to the best possible start.”
Head Coach Anthony McGrath stated: “Ben is a genuine talent who can generate extra bounce with his bowling. During the early part of the year when pitches may be greener or slower, he’ll be quite a handful, and I’m eager to have him join us and start collaborating.”
Gavin Hamilton, the General Manager of Cricket, commented: “Attracting exceptional bowlers like Ben to our club showcases Yorkshire’s global appeal. Ben is an exciting talent who will add a crucial element to our squad this season.
“We are delighted he’s signed with us and look forward to welcoming him to Headingley in April.”