New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner has joined Worcestershire Rapids for this summer’s NatWest T20 Blast.
The 23-year-old has represented the Black Caps in all formats after making his debut against England in an ODI at Edgbaston last season, where the hosts scored 400 for the first time.
Left-hander Santner, who will arrive at New Road as an overseas player in May, will link up with compatriot and paceman Matt Henry, who will spend the first half of the season with Worcestershire.
Santner bowls left-arm spin and will join forces with leg-spinner Brett D’Oliveira in the slow-bowling department.
Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: “To have an overseas player with three strings to his bow will be a huge bonus to our T20 Blast ambitions.
Rapids sign New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner for 2016 NatWest T20 Blast https://t.co/RsF6akfEbG pic.twitter.com/QqCq7fLtNv
— Worcestershire CCC (@WorcsCCC) January 12, 2016
“He presently plays all formats for New Zealand and bats in the top six.
“He is a genuine left-arm spinner so he will give our bowling terrific balance, and his athletic fielding will add to an already good fielding squad.
“We all look forward to working with Mitch through the T20 campaign.”
Santner added: “It has been a breakthrough time for me in terms of New Zealand, but I am always keen to develop my game and am looking forward to my first taste of county cricket.
“Worcestershire had a good run in the T20 last season in reaching the quarter-finals and I hope I can play my part in helping them to enjoy another successful tournament.
“The club has had several New Zealand players in its ranks in recent years and I hope to make a positive contribution with ball and bat.”
Source: ECB