Jarvis signs with Central Districts

Kyle Jarvis, the Zimbabwe fast bowler, has signed up with Central Districts for the remainder of the Plunket Shield, New Zealand's four-day domestic competition.

Central Districts coach Alan Hunt said Jarvis was recruited as several of the team's fast bowlers were unavailable. "Of the bowlers contracted at the start of the season we have had Doug Bracewell selected for New Zealand," Hunt said, "Adam Milne and Ben Wheeler needing to see specialists to determine whether they can bowl again this season, and Michael Mason only available for short-form cricket."

Over the past six months, Jarvis, 23, has established himself as one of Zimbabwe's leading fast bowlers after being out of the international scene for a year and a half due to a combination of injury and poor form.

''It is very exciting to have the opportunity to stay on in New Zealand and play some more first-class cricket,'' Jarvis, who was part of Zimbabwe's touring squad to New Zealand, said.

''The Plunket Shield is a very tough competition and I am sure that I will learn a lot from the experience. With the Stags having just won the Ford Trophy they are playing great cricket and I am looking forward to making a real contribution as they chase another title.''

With six rounds of the Plunket Shield remaining, Central Districts are in third spot. Their next match starts on February 17, against table-toppers Northern Districts at Rangiora.