Ian Butler signs with Gloucestershire

Ian Butler, the New Zealand fast bowler, has signed up with Gloucestershire as their second overseas player for the Friends Provident t20 tournament. Butler, who previously played for Gloucestershire in 2003, joins New Zealand team-mate allrounder James Franklin in the squad.

Butler, 29, has represented New Zealand in 14 Twenty20 games, performing impressively with 19 wickets at an average of 19. He has also played eight Tests and 26 ODIs. Butler played two games in the World Twenty20 this year, and had a crucial role in a tense last-over win against Pakistan, taking three wickets.

"I am really pleased to be back at Gloucestershire. The club has been very friendly and welcoming, just as I remembered it from before. I am looking forward to playing some cricket and helping the club to success in the Twenty20," Butler said.

Gloucestershire's director of cricket, John Bracewell, said: "I am delighted that Ian has joined us for the FP T20. Ian is a specialist death bowler and pinch hitter. He brings with him recent experience in the Champions League with Otago, and at the World Twenty20 with New Zealand, and will be huge asset to the squad."