West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach will return to Surrey County Cricket Club for the opening four matches of the Rothesay County Championship, marking his fifth consecutive season with the defending champions.
Roach, a fan favourite at The Kia Oval, will be available for Surrey’s fixtures against Essex, Hampshire, Sussex, and Somerset as the county begins its title defence. Known for his mastery of seam and swing with the red ball, the 36-year-old will join the squad ahead of their season opener at Chelmsford and remain with the side until the end of April.
Roach expressed his delight at rejoining the Three Feathers, calling Surrey his “second home.”
“I’ve enjoyed every moment of my time with Surrey over the last four years and I’m excited to join up with the team again,” Roach said in a statement published on the club’s website.
“The Kia 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. I’m looking forward to contributing to more success for Surrey in whatever way that I can.”
Roach has been a pivotal figure in Surrey’s recent dominance, helping them to three consecutive County Championship titles. Over 15 matches at the Kia Oval, he has taken 65 wickets, part of his 93 wickets overall for Surrey in First-Class cricket. That includes a standout performance of 8-40 against Hampshire in 2021—his best haul for the club.
Last season, Roach claimed 20 wickets, including 6-46 against Warwickshire, in another title-winning campaign for Surrey. His consistent contributions earned him a Surrey cap in May 2023, honouring his impact since first joining the club.
Alec Stewart, Surrey’s High-Performance Cricket Advisor, welcomed Roach’s return and praised his presence on and off the field.
“Kemar has been a big part of our dressing room in the last four years and it is great to have him back,” said Stewart.
“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.”
Surrey fans will get the opportunity to see Roach in action at The Kia Oval during home matches against Hampshire (April 11–14) and Somerset (April 25–28)—venues where the veteran pacer has repeatedly delivered match-winning performances.
With 284 Test wickets for the West Indies and 566 First-Class wickets overall, Roach adds world-class experience and depth to Surrey’s pace attack as they aim for a historic fourth consecutive County Championship crown.