Rothesay County Championship – Sean Abbott returns to Surrey for fourth stint

Surrey have signed Sean Abbott for the upcoming county season, with the Australian allrounder set for his fourth stint at the Kia Oval.

Abbott played for the club in 2021, 2023 and 2024, picking up a County Championship winners medal in those last two campaigns. He re-joins Surrey after they missed out on four-in-a-row as Nottinghamshire took the title last season.

He will be available for the first eight rounds of the County Championship – starting against Warwickshire on Easter weekend (April 3) – and the entirety of the Vitality Blast before his deal ends in July. After Kemar Roach moved to Durham following five seasons at Surrey, Abbott’s return adds some necessary and familiar cutting edge to an experienced bowling attack.

The 34-year old has 58 white ball caps for Australia, split evenly between ODIs and T20Is, with 79 wickets across both formats. He is currently sitting on 49 first class dismissals for Surrey at 25.73, and a handy 614 runs at 38.37.

His Blast record is equally handy, with 25 wickets and 221 runs, the latter bolstered by a remarkable record-equalling 34-ball century against Kent Spitfires in 2023. Abbott is also the leading wicket-taker in the Australian Big Bash League with 186.

“The opportunity to rejoin Surrey for the 2026 season was a no brainer for me,” said Abbott in a statement released by Surrey. “The club has become a real home away from home. The dressing room environment is one of the best I’ve experienced in my career and I’m looking forward to linking up with the group once more.

“I can’t wait to walk out at the Kia Oval wearing the Three Feathers once again and help push the group for more success this summer.”

Director of men’s cricket Alec Stewart added: “We look forward to Sean rejoining us back at the Kia Oval. His qualities as a cricketer speak for themselves and I have no doubts he will fit straight back into the dressing room.”

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