Shaun Tait joins Dolphins for Pro20

Shaun Tait, the Australia fast bowler, has signed up with Dolphins, the Durban-based franchise, for the Pro20 competition for the 2011-12 season. Tait retired from Tests and ODIs following Australia's exit in the quarter-final stage of the 2011 World Cup, but represented Rajasthan Royals in the IPL this year, grabbing six wickets in four games.

"Having played last year in Durban during the Champions Trophy, I know that I am really looking forward to getting back and bowling at a ground that definitely suits me," Tait said. "I am genuinely excited to be given this opportunity and am looking forward to playing my part with the Dolphins in seeing them taste success."

The CEO of KwaZulu-Natal Cricket Union and Dolphins Cricket, Jesse Chellan, was thrilled that Tait had signed on. "He is a world class, match-winning fast bowler and will add much needed pace to our attack," he said. "We are serious about 'crossing the finishing line' this season and we have no doubt that Shaun will help deliver on this to our fans."

Graham Ford, the Dolphins coach, added: "Our young players have progressed extremely well over the past 12 months and for them to now play alongside the fastest bowler in world cricket will be a wonderful learning opportunity and a massive experience."

The Dolphins topped the table in the league phase of the Pro20 competition last year but were beaten in the semi-final by the Warriors. Their first Pro20 match this season is next February.

Besides the IPL and the Dolphins, Tait also has a T20 contract with the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League. He was forced to turn down a deal with Surrey earlier this year due to an elbow injury sustained during the IPL.