Nantie Hayward, the South Africa quick bowler, has signed as one of Ireland's overseas players for the Friends Provident Trophy. He has played 16 Tests and 21 ODIs for South Africa but hasn't appeared on the international stage since 2004.

Hayward has plenty of previous experience in English domestic cricket having had stints with Middlesex and Worcestershire. His arrival will help bolster the Irish team which has lost a number of its World Cup stars to counties since their return from the Caribbean.

"It's been no secret we've been actively pursuing an opening bowler following Boyd Rankin's return to Derbyshire," said coach Phil Simmons. "I'm delighted to have captured Nantie, who is a proven quality performer, experienced in English conditions, and who has the extra pace and bounce necessary to trouble county opposition. He will be here in time for the weekend double header."

Last season the Pakistan duo of Shahid Afridi and Saqlain Mushtaq appeared for Ireland, who lost their opening Friends Provident fixture this season against Kent by 58 runs.