Essex re-sign Daniel Sams for Vitality T20 Blast campaign

Daniel Sams, the Australia allrounder, has signed for a second spell with Essex for this summer's Vitality Blast.

Sams helped Essex to reach the Blast quarter-finals last summer, taking 14 wickets in 12 games alongside hitting 165 runs at a strike rate of 171.87, before going on to pick up a Hundred winner's medal with Trent Rockets.

"I'm delighted that I am able to sign for Essex for another season ahead of the 2023 campaign," Sams said.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the club last year and I can't wait to get back over there and play in front of the passionate Chelmsford crowd once again. The support we received last year was unbelievable and I strongly believe we have a strong squad this season that has a great chance of winning more silverware."

Sams, who has been capped 10 times in T20Is by Australia, will arrive in the UK after completing his spell at this year's IPL with Lucknow Super Giants.

Essex's head coach, Anthony McGrath, said: "We're really pleased to have Daniel re-sign for the club ahead of the upcoming Vitality Blast. He played a big part in our campaign last time out both on and off the pitch and we're excited to welcome him back.

"He has been one of the most consistent players in T20 cricket around the world over the last few years with bat and ball, so we're thrilled to see him return."

Essex Cricket CEO, John Stephenson, added: "Daniel showed last season that he is a player of high calibre, and we were keen to bring him back to Chelmsford this season. We're looking to go even further this season in the Vitality Blast and bringing Dan back will help with our progression."