Lancashire Signs George Dockrell for Vitality Blast Knockout Stages

Lancashire County Cricket Club has secured the services of Irish all-rounder George Dockrell for the knockout stages of the Vitality Blast T20 competition. This move comes as Australian offspinner Chris Green, Lancashire's leading wicket-taker in the tournament, will be unavailable due to his commitments with the Caribbean Premier League.

ECB regulations stipulate that overseas players must participate in at least one group-stage match to be eligible for the knockout rounds. This rule was implemented after Essex's controversial signing of Dwayne Bravo solely for Finals Day in 2010.

The Blast's schedule has been disrupted this season due to the T20 World Cup in June and the Hundred's summer break. As a result, there is a significant gap between the group stage and the quarter-finals, leaving counties scrambling to secure overseas players available in mid-September.

Lancashire has found a solution by adding Dockrell to their squad for their final two group games against Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire. The move ensures that Dockrell meets the eligibility criteria for the knockout stages.

"We are delighted to welcome George to our squad for the remainder of the Vitality Blast," said Lancashire coach Dale Benkenstein. "With the potential for knockout matches in September and uncertainty around player availability, George provides us with another overseas option for the latter stages."

Dockrell, who has transitioned into a batting allrounder, expressed his excitement about joining Lancashire. "We are in a strong position in the North Group, with two important home games remaining as we look to secure a home quarter-final at Emirates Old Trafford in September," he said.

Green, who has taken 13 wickets in the Blast this season, will depart after the group stage to play for Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in the CPL. He could potentially return for Finals Day on September 14 if his schedule permits.

New Zealand batter Tom Bruce has been Lancashire's other overseas player in the Blast. After a slow start, he regained form with an unbeaten 50 against Worcestershire.

Lancashire's acquisition of Dockrell strengthens their squad as they aim to secure a home quarter-final and make a deep run in the Vitality Blast.

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