Blewett stands in for Symonds at Kent

The merry-go-round of international cricketers appearing in the domestic game continues with the news that Australian all-rounder, Greg Blewett, is set to join Kent as stand-in for Andrew Symonds for the first six weeks of the season.

Symonds has been Kent's overseas player for the last two years and is due to resume his duties again for a third year but he is currently playing for Australia A against South Africa A and is expected to be selected as a member of Australia's one-day squad to play against the West Indies in May. As an influential member of the World Cup-winning side, it would be a major surprise if he were to be left out now.

Ian Brayshaw, Kent's director of cricket, explained the situation. "Andrew has a busy playing schedule ahead of him in the next few weeks," he said. "We expect to see him in England ready to play for Kent at the start of June.

"We are, therefore, delighted Greg Blewett has agreed to join us in his place. Greg has a proven track record at international level and in county cricket and we are sure he wants to make a success of his time at Kent."

Blewett, who has been in St Lucia representing Australia in an international double-wicket tournament, will arrive in England next week in time for the Kent's opening match against Cambridge UCCE on 18th April.

"I am really looking forward to playing for Kent," said Blewett. "I was always keen to play county cricket this summer and this opportunity gives me the chance to make an early impact on the English season."

Blewett, a 31-year-old from South Australia, made his Test debut for Australia in 1994, has played 46 Tests and 32 one-day internationals. He played for Yorkshire in 1999 and experienced an outstanding season with Nottinghamshire in 2001.