SURREY – West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach will rejoin Surrey for the first four matches of the upcoming County Championship campaign, continuing his successful association with the club. The 36-year-old, who was a key figure in Surrey’s last three title-winning seasons, boasts an impressive international record with 284 Test wickets for the West Indies. Roach’s return marks his fifth straight year with Surrey, with his first appearance set for next Friday in their season opener against Essex. Since joining the county side, the veteran seamer has taken 93 wickets for Surrey and 566 in his first-class career. His record includes 65 scalps in just 15 matches at The Oval, where he will be featured in Surrey’s second game against Hampshire. He will also play in away fixtures against Sussex and a home clash with Somerset to round out April. The Barbadian seamer was elated that he will once again don the Surrey colours in more than favourable conditions. “I’ve enjoyed every moment of my time with Surrey over the last four years, and I’m excited to join with the team again. The Oval is my second home, and the environment led by Alec Stewart, Gareth Batty, and Rory Burns is one of the best I’ve been a part of.” Alec Stewart, High Performance Cricket Advisor at Surrey CCC, also weighed in on the return of the West Indian. “Kemar has been a big part of our dressing room in the last four years and it is great to have him back. His quality, work ethic, and commitment to the club speak for itself. I am confident he will once again play an important role at the start of this season, and the group is looking forward to working with him again.” (CMC)