Lou Vincent will make his long-awaited return to the cricket world when he takes the field at the Black Clash next year in Christchurch.
The former Black Cap was banned from cricket in 2014 after he was found to be involved in match fixing. However, the lifetime ban was overturned last year.
“I honestly never thought something like this would be possible,” Vincent said.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this happen. As I’ve said before, life throws everyone curve balls and it is the support of our families, friends and communities that gets us through.
Lou Vincent is set to make his return to cricket after being banned in 2014. (Source: Breakfast)
The 2025 Black Clash is to be held at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on January 18.
"It's probably one of the biggest sporting events in New Zealand at the moment. I'm just thrilled to be welcomed back, to be able to see the lads again and play with some of my old teammates, I can't wait to see them," Vincent told 1News.
Vincent said it didn't take long for him to accept the invitation.
"It was pretty quick, but then you quickly realise you haven't hit balls for over 10 years, so it could be rather embarrassing for me.
"Hopefully they put a nice slow bowler for me just to get my eye in."
Vincent said it was a good opportunity for him to give back to the game he loves.
"It's a festival, it's a fun event and I always try to play cricket with the fun factor in mind - I really appreciate the invitation."
Vincent played over 100 one day international (ODI) matches for New Zealand, and was presented his cap by Sir Richard Hadlee earlier this year at a private function.
He also played 23 Tests and nine T20s.
Former teammate and Team Cricket captain Daniel Vettori said he is delighted at the prospect of taking the field with Vincent again.
“Lou was a fantastic teammate who played the game with incredible passion and energy,” Vettori said.
“It is well documented what Louis went through, but to be part of welcoming him back to the cricket community after so long away and dedicating his life to rectify what happened in the past, is exciting for all of us.”
Vincent is heading to Ibiza later this week to represent them in a T10 competition so that he can have some more practice before the Black Clash next January.
He's already started practising, using a local tennis court to face some balls from a bowling machine.
"It's not ideal, but you have to start somewhere."
The Black Clash has already confirmed former West Indies batsman Chris Gayle for the 2025 edition representing Team Rugby.
Team Cricket have won the most Black Clash fixtures so far and lead Team Rugby 4-2.
Tickets for the 2025 Black Clash go on sale today at blackclash.co.nz
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