Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer has signed a five-week contract with Lancashire County Cricket Club. The Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) star player will compete in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup and the final two rounds of the Vitality County Championship, both scheduled for late August.

On Friday, Lancashire County Cricket Club announced the signing of dynamic Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Venkatesh. Eager to earn a recall to the Indian national team, Venkatesh is determined to make the most of this opportunity.

“I’m excited to make my county cricket debut, representing the esteemed Lancashire County Cricket Club. Lancashire has long welcomed talented Indian cricketers like Farokh Engineer, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman, and most recently, Washington Sundar. I’m eager to don the iconic Red Rose colors at Emirates Old Trafford and follow in their footsteps,” Venkatesh said.

“Playing one-day and first-class cricket in English conditions this summer will greatly benefit my game. I aim to entertain the fans and help my Lancashire teammates achieve their goals in both formats,” he added.

Lancashire’s Director of Cricket Performance, Mark Chilton, also welcomed the team’s new signing. “Venkatesh’s experience will bolster the young squad during the One-Day Cup. He offers an explosive middle-order batting option and an additional bowling option to rely on.”

Venkatesh has declined to extend his contract, as he plans to return to India before the start of the Duleep Trophy on September 5. His intent to compete in this domestic tournament is part of his strategy to regain a spot on the Indian national team.

The national selectors are expected to finalize the four Duleep Trophy squads after India’s tour of Zimbabwe concludes. As they assemble the teams for this prestigious domestic competition, the selectors will undoubtedly keep an eye on Venkatesh’s performances for Lancashire.