Lancashire sign du Plessis for 2008

Francois du Plessis in action for the Titans © Cricinfo

Lancashire have signed 23-year-old South African batsman Francois du Plessis on a six-month contract from April 2008. du Plessis is currently playing domestic cricket in South Africa for the Titans and has established a reputation as one of the country's future stars. He is signed as a Kolpak player.

"Francois is a very promising young batsman who has already made significant contributions in first-class cricket," said Mike Watkinson, Lancashire's cricket manager. "He will join up with us next season on a six-month contract and will provide quality depth to our batting resources. His spell with us will also be an opportunity for him to further develop his game in the same way as our young players do when they spend winter months playing overseas."

"It's always been my ambition to play county cricket and to get that opportunity with a club the size of Lancashire is a great honour," du Plessis said. "Lancashire has a very experienced squad with excellent training facilities, and I look forward to playing my part in helping the club win silverware next season."

du Plessis played for Todmorden in the Lancashire League in 2007, so is no stranger to the area.