Yohan Blake Plans to Play Cricket Professionally After Retirement

Jamaican speedster Yohan Blake claims he has held talks with English County side Yorkshire over a proposed move to cricket when he retires from track and field.

Blake , the 2011 world champion, has a personal best of 9.69 seconds but played as a fast bowler in high school.

“I’ve been wanting to play for Yorkshire or in England. After running, I’ll put my mind to that,” Blake told BBC Radio 5 live.

“We have some talks with some of people and we are looking forward for it.”

Yorkshire said Blake was “welcome” to play for them, tweeting: “Let’s get that sorted; come and have a net with us.”

A club spokesman added: “At this stage, we’re flattered that Yohan has expressed an interest in being involved and playing with Yorkshire. We’re always on the lookout for fresh talent.

“Let’s get him in the nets and see what he’s made of.”

Blake, the former St. Jago star, plays for Kingston Cricket Club when the athletics season is over and claims he could be the world’s fastest bowler – regularly reaching speeds of 85-90mph when he is practising.

He plans to retire from the track at 29 and switch to cricket, though he joked he is already “good enough to make England’s team”.

Surrey batsman Kevin Pietersen – recently axed by England – tweeted Blake:  “There is a batting slot at number four in England side for you! I’d be happy for you to take it…#BeastTheBall”

Blake during a visit to Lords in August  said “I love cricket more than I love athletics,” adding “I practise at home because I have a bowling machine, which I set to 90mph because I like the speed.”

He is presently in Manchester where he will run the 150m event at the Great City Games this weekend.

His compatriot and training partner Usain Bolt currently owns the record of 14.35. Bolt has also talked of switching sports after hanging up his track spikes, saying he “has the skills” to play for Manchester United, while the coach of the Jamaican national football team, Winfried Schaefer, is reportedly interested in using the world’s fastest man.

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