Staffordshire have completed two signings ahead of the 2026 National Counties Cricket Association season.
All-rounder Olly Walker and seamer Sam Keeling-Wright have both made the move from Herefordshire.
The duo play their club cricket for Staffordshire clubs Himley and Old Hill respectively.
Walker, aged 21, made his Herefordshire debut in 2022 and has been a regular fixture in all formats for the county.
The right-handed batter has scored 11 half-centuries and two tons across all three competitions since making his NCCA bow.
His seam-bowling has also picked up 29 wickets.
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Opening bowler Keeling-Wright made his Herefordshire Championship debut in 2023 and figured in white-ball matches from the following season.
The Staffordshire-born paceman has taken 19 wickets in NCCA cricket during his short time on the circuit.
Keeling-Wright, also aged 21, will now be looking to make an impact on signing for his home county.
‘Exciting times’
Staffordshire captain James Kettleborough said: “Olly’s signing is a really pleasing one. We’ve got a seriously talented all-round cricketer joining us.
“His numbers in all formats from the 2025 season speak for themselves and lots of interest from other surrounding counties tells you plenty about his ability.
“Sam is a very exciting acquisition. Anyone who has had to face Sam will know exactly the challenge and pace he brings to the table.
“This leaves our seam department looking really healthy and I’m really excited by the quality, but also how young they are, too.
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“Olly and Sam play at Himley and Old Hill respectively so it’s really pleasing to obtain the services of two Staffordshire players who have been on our radar for some time as they’re evidently both immensely talented.
“We’ve welcomed a number of new and existing players at the start of the winter programme and they’ve made a positive impact so far.
“We’re in a really positive place as a squad right now which is exactly where we want to be at this time of year.”
‘County mission’
Staffordshire cricket committee chairman Richard Harvey added: “The signings of Olly and Sam are really exciting.
“Both are talented young players who have National Counties experience and are highly regarded at this level.
“It’s also pleasing to be able to bring them back to Staffordshire given they play at Staffordshire clubs in the Birmingham League.
“As we’ve said before, it’s really important to ensure the best players from across the whole county are involved in Staffordshire cricket and this is another move in that direction.”
Image: Staffordshire captain James Kettleborough, left, welcomes new signing Olly Walker to the squad.
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