Nannes joins Somerset for T20 Blast

Somerset have recruited the former Australia fast bowler Dirk Nannes as one of their overseas players for the NatWest T20 Blast. Nannes will be available throughout the competition, adding Somerset to his extensive list of T20 engagements around the world.

Nannes will be 38 on the opening day of the T20 Blast, when Somerset take on Gloucestershire in Bristol. He has spent the majority of his career playing the shortest form of the game, most recently in the Big Bash League with Sydney Sixers, and is one of a handful of bowlers to have taken more than 200 T20 wickets.

"We are really excited to have signed Dirk Nannes for the NatWest T20 Blast after what has been a rather lengthy and tough search," Somerset's director of cricket, Dave Nosworthy, said. "We have always been intent on trying to find a quality international player who was prepared to commit to the entire competition. Dirk fits the bill on both counts.

"Having previously worked with Dirk I know that he is a very good team man and I have no doubt that his off field contributions will be just as important as his on field performances."

Leicestershire were also in negotiations to try and sign Nannes, who previously represented Netherlands and has played county cricket for Surrey, Nottinghamshire and Middlesex. Last season he signed for Glamorgan but had to pull out after suffering an injury at the IPL. Having a base in the UK has increased his value as the T20 Blast is spread out through the season, with most matches being played on Friday nights, making it harder for counties to tie up overseas deals.

Nannes said: "As an outsider, I've always been envious of the long and continued success that Somerset as a club seem to achieve. It will be good to have the shoe on the other foot, and I will hopefully be able to contribute to a nice winning streak. I am now living very close to Taunton, so it feels like I'll be playing for my local team."