New overseas star Jackson Bird flies into Notts CCC with high hopes

Australian pace and swing bowler Bird has been recruited to replace fellow countryman Peter Siddle, who had to withdraw from a deal to play during 2016 because of injury.

The 29-year-old joins Notts on the back of a career-best figures of 5-59 in the Aussies’ recent Test series victory over New Zealand, and he’s hoping to maintain his fine form through the summer.

“My style is to challenge the batsmen with every delivery, making them play at balls they shouldn’t be and keeping the ball in the right areas for a number of overs,” said Bird.

“I think that kind of bowling suits the English conditions and, after talking to Andre Adams about the wickets there, I can’t wait to bowl on surfaces at Trent Bridge.

“Hopefully, I will also be able to pass on my experience to the younger lads, although the trip acts as a learning curve for myself and I will be picking the brains of teammates.”

Bird, who plays for Tasmania and Big Bash League team Sydney Sixers back home, will join Dan Christian as the two overseas stars for Notts in 2016. He has played in five Tests and taken 21 wickets. His first-class career only began in 2011, but he has bagged 185 wickets in 45 matches.