Date of birth – 12 November 1985 Queensland, Australia
Nottinghamshire First-Class Debut – 29 May 2011 v Worcestershire (New Road)
Riki Wessels has been an outstanding acquisition for Nottinghamshire, since joining the county in 2011 after a previous spell with Northants.
The aggressive right-handed batsman has scored nearly 5,000 first-class runs in that time, with a best of 199 made against Sussex at Hove. Additionally, he has become a vital component in the white ball game, forming a destructive top three alongside Alex Hales and Michael Lumb.
Wessels and Lumb broke several partnership records last season in adding 342 together against his former county. Wessels’ share was 146, his highest one-day knock.
The 2014 campaign was the standout season for him, with his 1,213 first-class runs being a major factor in his selection as the county’s Player of the Year.
Several overseas franchises have been alerted by his clean striking, with various stints being served in the Bangladesh and Pakistan Premier Leagues, as well as a season with Sydney Sixers in Australia’s Big Bash.
His value to Nottinghamshire has also seen him deputise on occasions for Chris Read, not only with the wicketkeeping gloves but also as first team captain.
The son of Kepler, the former Australia and South African opening batsman, Wessels has completed a lengthy qualification period to become eligible if England call, so he has every incentive to deliver some stellar performances in 2017.