Razzaq returns as McDonald departs

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Abdul Razzaq will be back at Grace Road next summer, but FLt20 champions Leicestershire will have to cope without Andrew McDonald

Leicestershire will be boosted by the return of Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq next summer as they look to defend their Friends Life t20 title, but Andrew McDonald’s stay at Grace Road has been brought to an end.

Razzaq, one of the most feared batsmen on the t20 circuit and a proven performer with the ball, played a key role in helping the Foxes to a third domestic t20 title, scoring 262 runs and picking up 18 wickets. He also represented the club in the Champions League T20 in India.

Leicestershire head coach Phil Whitticase said: "It is a major boost for us. There are fewer t20 games next season so it will be important that we have a similar type of team.

"Abdul has shown us all what he can do and we look forward to having him back with us."

Unfortunately for Leicestershire, their retention of Razzaq is offset by McDonald’s failure to obtain a work permit.

The 30-year-old Australian, who featured in all forms of the game this year as the club’s overseas player, was named as the FTI MVP for the Friends Life t20 after a string of oustanding all-round performances.

His 584 runs - at an average of 53 - represented the highest tally in the competition and he also took 14 wickets and 12 catches.

McDonald joins the retiring Paul Nixon and Nottinghamshire-bound left-arm seamer Harry Gurney in leaving Leicestershire.

Chief executive Mike Siddall said: "It's really sad to have to say goodbye to three guys on the playing staff who have made a fantastic contribution to winning the FLt20 this year and taking Leicestershire into the Champions League.

"Paul is now a Leicestershire legend and we wish him well for the future. Visa regulations mean that Andrew cannot return next season and we thank him for the impact he has made over the past two years.

"We all wish Harry well in his move up the road to Trent Bridge - it's a fantastic opportunity for him - if he emulates Stuart Broad we'll all be very pleased."

Leicestershire have already taken steps to replace McDonald by recruiting 37-year-old South African batsman Martin van Jaarsveld on a two-year deal from Kent, with an option for a third year.

Siddall added: "With Andrew unable to return next season it was important the club signed a senior batsman as we are unlikely to have an overseas player in the LV= County Championship in 2012."

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