Saif Zaib signs new Northamptonshire contract

The 22-year old has been with the county since 2014 and made four appearances in last season’s Bob Willis Trophy

Saif Zaib has signed a one-year contract extension with Northamptonshire to keep him at the club until at least the end of 2022.

Zaib, who made his debut for the county as a 16-year old in 2014, made four appearances in last season’s Bob Willis Trophy – taking four wickets at an average of 21 – as well as helping the Steelbacks reach the quarter-finals of the Vitality Blast.

Commenting on his new contract, Zaib said: "I am very pleased to sign a new deal, we have a good young team coming through which is exciting to be a part of.

"I feel like I had a decent run in the team last year and felt good when I was out in the middle. It was disappointing not to get to Finals Day in the Blast but I’m sure we will come back stronger this year.

We're pleased to announce @zaib_05's contract has been extended until the end of 2022. 🙌

"It was a little bit of a breakout year for me last year, but I’d definitely like to do a bit more for the team."

— Northamptonshire CCC (@NorthantsCCC) January 18, 2021

Assessing his performances last season, the all-rounder continued: "It was a little bit of a breakout year for me last year, but I’d definitely like to do a bit more for the team.

"I would love to contribute more and more as we move forward and have many more successful years as a Steelback."

Northamptonshire T20 captain, Josh Cobb, added: "Saif has been around a while now and shown glimpses but it was great to see him show everyone what we know he can do in the Twenty20s last year. He’s a real three-dimensional cricketer who should be pushing for a key role in all three formats.

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"He’s always worked hard on his game but he’s being smart and learning alongside that now as well. When he’s going he’s a 360 degree batter who’s exciting to watch so there’ll be more match winning innings to come from Saif I’m sure."