Former England wicketkeeper excited at prospect

Nixon joins Indian Cricket League

Cricinfo staff

October 31, 2007

'This is an exciting opportunity to end what has been a remarkably eventful year for me' © Getty Images

Paul Nixon, the 37-year-old former England wicketkeeper, has signed for the Indian Cricket League.

"This is an exciting opportunity to end what has been a remarkably eventful year for me," Nixon said. "I would never have imagined 12 months ago that I would get the opportunity to go on two England tours, and I always saw that as a bonus and a tremendous honour to play for my country."

Nixon was selected by England for the one-day series in Australia following the Ashes, and also for the World Cup. But, at 37, he realizes his chances of further international recognition are probably over.

"I now have two big goals to look forward to in my career, playing in this Twenty20 league and the captaincy of Leicestershire," he said. "This is perfect timing because India is the Mecca of cricket and interest in the Twenty20 game is extremely high due to the success of the national team in becoming world champions."

The league, which begins on November 30, features the likes of Brian Lara and Inzamam-ul-Haq.

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