Highly rated Munster all-rounder Brandon Kruger has confirmed he is joining Railway Union for the 2023 season.

The 22 year-old has spent the last four seasons playing in Cork with County and Harlequins, but feels the time is right for pastures new and a fresh challenge.

"I have had some amazing experiences in the last four years, reaching four All-Ireland semi-finals, two consecutive finals with Harlequins, as well as playing in the Leinster championship for two seasons," Kruger told CricketEurope.

"That has allowed me to grow as a player as well as working closely with Ted Williamson and my dad, which has played a massive role in my cricket throughout.

"I consistently want to challenge myself and learn more about my game and myself.  I was pretty happy with the 2022 season where we won the treble with Harlequins of the Munster Senior Cup, Munster Premier Division and the Munster T20 cup was another great achievement.

"Being given the honour to captain the Munster Heat side which won the Emerging series aswell As making my Munster Reds debut was a massive moment for me on a personal level. On the back of all of this there were a few offers that came my way which I am extremely grateful for.

"During my first full season in Ireland we played against Railway and after the game got the opportunity to sit down and have a chat with Kevin O' Brien,  just getting to know him a little bit better. Then we were team mates in the Reds  so that helped make the decision easier.  

"I just want to contribute as much as I can to Railway. With us getting promoted to the Leinster Premier League it will be an exciting challenge that awaits all of us at Park Avenue. and an exciting opportunity to test myself against the best in Ireland and to play alongside some club legends,

"I’m really looking forward to meeting up with the lads in the summer.  I will be involved with youth coaching as well  so I look forward to trying to make a difference there. With a lot of the Reds training in Dublin I will be a lot closer and won’t have to make the journey up for training sessions and feel that will allow me to put more focus and attention on my cricket."

There's no doubt that Kruger feels being in Dublin will help with his Irish ambitions, and is hoping the move puts him firmly in the shop window for Heinrich Malan's squad.

"My biggest ambition of all is to play for Ireland," admitted Kruger.

"I will qualify in July this year, but firstly my main aim is to do well for Railway and for the Reds on a regular basis. 

"I will still be playing  for Harlequins in the Munster League, to allow me to play for the Munster Heat again but so far it’s been a good reward for the hardwork and sacrifices over the years. I know there is still a lot more work to be done.

"I am very grateful to Railway for the opportunity and will give my 150% everyday."